Sean Ingle’s mention of the advantages of rugby is valid, but he also acknowledges the importance of considering the potential dangers of contact sports on a growing brain. As seen in his recent piece (Should U18 rugby be banned? No. But tell that to parents of a concussed child, 5 February), there is a need to find a balance between these factors.

Head injuries in teenagers pose a distinct difficulty, especially due to the varied and prolonged symptoms they experience. Surprisingly, patients seen in our specialized clinics for complex cases frequently exhibit a strong psychological aspect in their ongoing concussion symptoms, often fueled by worries about potential long-term cognitive problems. Despite this, we cannot avoid addressing this issue with young individuals and their parents; it is important to be transparent about what is known and unknown regarding the risks of singular or repeated concussions.

Research indicates that sustained head impacts and prolonged participation in sports may pose greater long-term risks for brain injury. However, this does not diminish the importance of identifying and effectively managing potential concussions in both amateur and professional settings.

Contact sports will never be completely without risk, but having witnessed the willingness with which the schools and clubs we work with have embraced the importance of managing the risks of head injuries and concussions, the future of rugby isn’t perhaps as bleak as some suggest.
Dr Mike Forsythe

Second-in-command of sports medicine at Return2Play.

Source: theguardian.com