The death of famed player Dave Duerson spotlighted once again that football players are suffering serious consequences from brain injuries. Before his death, Duerson believed that he had a condition called chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and fought for health care reform in the NFL.

According to researchers, CTE is a degenerative brain injury that is a result of traumatic head injuries. The illness, which symptoms include hallucinations and suicidal thoughts, affects those who have a strong history of concussions.  A string of veteran players who took their lives were also found to have CTE.

The newest study is indicating that even without the tough tackles, players are still at risk for brain injuries. Researchers at the Loyola University Medical Center and the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill’s Center for the Study of Retired Athletes monitored the brain activity of 41 retired players. Their tests showed abnormal results and were more closely aligned with an older age group. They believe that players have an increased likelihood of developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI) which can lead to Alzheimer’s.

Medical scholars believe that over time the low impact hits strain nerve cell connections that control thoughts and memories. Eventually these nerve cells die off and as a result, patients exhibit:

• Memory loss
• Speech impediments
• Brain function deficiencies

Unfortunately these symptoms are subtle and not easily detected on a daily basis.

The damage starts for many in college football where the average player can withstand 1,300 hits. If they progress to the NFL, this number increases along with the probability that they will develop degenerative brain injuries.

So what does this mean for the future of the NFL? It is difficult to know what the league will rule on these findings. After Duerson’s death in February they released a statement saying,

“The league insists it’s taking head trauma and player safety seriously, but it’s hard to see how adding two more full contact games…doesn’t increase the risk for more players to end up like Duerson.”

It was Duerson’s hope that they would change their perspective and look to reforming player healthcare.

As the debate for an 18 game season surges on, this new study strengthens the argument that something must be done to protect players. The researchers suggest that less contact during practice could be the answer to curbing the development of MCI and CTE. However, more studies and examinations will be needed. In the meantime, the lockout continues.

The attorneys at Parker McDonald Law defend victims and their families who have sustained brain injuries because of company or individual negligence. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation on how we can represent your claim.