PREVENTION
• Make certain that all equipment fits properly and is worn properly.
• Increase strength and flexibility of neck and back muscles.
• Use proper technique always because the result of this type of injury is often paralysis. Mechanism of Injury: Lowering the head and striking an object with the top or crown (i.e. spearing or tossing an opponent onto their head).
COMMONLY ASSOCIATED WITH:
Football, wrestling
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
• American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery
• Brain Injury Association
• Wheeless Textbook of Orthopedics
It is extremely important to be able to recognize serious and/or life threatening injuries. These injuries are not always obvious therefore, we recommend that someone (i.e. a coach or team parent) become certified in Basic First Aide Procedures. The American Red Cross offers frequent courses in the procedures.
