Concussion remedies unproven, experts say

The only surefire way to prevent a brain injury during athletic practice or competition is by not participating in the sport.<br> <br> That's what experts are saying to athletes and protective parents who are tempted by helmets with "<a class="taxInlineTagLink" id="HEINW000011" title="Concussion" href="/topic/health/injuries-wounds/concussion-HEINW000011.topic">concussion</a> reduction technology," special mouth guards meant to "prevent concussions and <a class="taxInlineTagLink" id="HEINW00009" title="Head Injuries" href="/topic/health/injuries-wounds/head-injuries-HEINW00009.topic">head injuries</a>," and even pills promising to improve the brain's resistance to injury.<br> <br> Efforts would be better spent becoming familiar with the often subtle symptoms of concussion and asking coaches about teams' concussion game plans, experts say.

( Adam Hunger / Reuters )

The only surefire way to prevent a brain injury during athletic practice or competition is by not participating in the sport.

That's what experts are saying to athletes and protective parents who are tempted by helmets with "concussion reduction technology," special mouth guards meant to "prevent concussions and head injuries," and even pills promising to improve the brain's resistance to injury.

Efforts would be better spent becoming familiar with the often subtle symptoms of concussion and asking coaches about teams' concussion game plans, experts say.

  • Email E-mail
  • add to Twitter Twitter
  • add to Facebook Facebook
  • add to StumbleUpon StumbleUpon
Comments are filtered for language and registration is required. The Times makes no guarantee of comments' factual accuracy. Readers may report inappropriate comments by clicking the Report Abuse link next to a comment. Here are the full legal terms you agree to by using this comment form.
Connect
Advertisement
Jodi Arias asks jury for life term; deliberations begin

Jodi Arias asks jury for life term; deliberations begin

Lawry's prime rib for $1.25; original Lawry's celebrates 75 years

Lawry's prime rib for $1.25; original Lawry's celebrates 75 years

4 videos of Oklahoma tornado: Raw emotion as the monster forms

Watch the Oklahoma tornado form

<b>Opinion:</b> Why USC and not a black college, Dr. Dre?

Opinion: Why USC and not a black college, Dr. Dre?

Photos of the Day
More »

Video