Doctors Back New Sports-Concussion Rules

A group of doctors who treat brain injuries wants more protections for athletes who suffer concussions. The advice came from the American Academy of Neurology. The new statement says that any athlete who may have a concussion should be removed from play until evaluated by an expert. The player would return only when a doctor trained in treatment of sports concussion says it’s safe. Anyone still having symptoms of concussion would not be allowed to play. The group also says that a certified athletic trainer should attend all games and practices when athletes are at risk for concussion. All of the advice applies to all levels of sports, from youth to professional leagues. Most youth sports do not have a trainer at games or practices, the Associated Press (AP) noted. Providing them would be very difficult, people involved in the sports told AP.