A4IA Celebration at Flemings this Friday

We hope to see you there!

Gender and Age play a role post concussion recovery

In a recent study released by The American Journal of Sports Medicine, researchers discuss the role of age and gender and it's effects on post concussion recovery. In this study, researchers at Michigan State University convey female athletes and younger athletes are more likely to have prolonged recovery time. The study compared 296 concussed athletes across various states over a 2 year period with emphasis on neurocognitive performance, post concussive symptoms, and postural stability. Each athlete completed a series of tests immediately following their concussion which composed of: ImPACT cognitive testing, Post-concussion Symptom Scale, and Pos-Concussion Assessment. Additionally, athletes were assessed using the same analysis tools at day number 2, 7, and 14 following the concussion. The results of the study verified the role of gender and age with female athletes performing much worse than males on the visual memory assessment along with more severe symptoms after the concussion. In comparing the high school athletes with collegiate athletes, seven days post concussion high school athletes showed higher percentage of verbal memory impairment. The results of the postural assessment were conclusive with other results, revealing both female and high school athletes scored worse than college athletes than compared to female and male athletes. Further studies to investigate the severity symptoms amongst females as well as athletes under fourteen are underway as well as a connection between brain injury and development pre adolescents. For more information on the Michigan State University Study visit: http://www.sportsconcussions.org/ibaseline/study-some-have-more-symptoms-and-they-last-longer.html .

Condolences to the family and friends of Mission Hills High School Senior, Anthony Vaeao

Condolences for the family and friends of Mission Hills High School High School Senior and football athlete, Anthony Vaeao, are deepened this morning in an effort to understand the cause of his sudden death. A candlelight vigil was held thursday evening on the football field for family and friends to gather and remember their beloved classmate, teammate, and friend . Antony Vaeao was playing basketball on thursday (5/17/12), when he suddenly collapsed to the ground and was rushed to the hosptial around 2:50pm at Mission Hills High School. A beloved young man with a big personality and a bright future. Antony Vaeao would graduate in less than a month and continue on to Arizona where he signed on to play football in the fall. At this time the cause of death is unkown as the San Marcos community attempts to make sense of this tragic event.

Brain supplements targeted at young athletes

Education and awareness of concussions and second impact syndrome is increasingly gaining strength each day. With an array of researchers all over the world investigating the short and long term impacts of these cerebral injuries, it has gained media attention. However, parents, coaches, athletes and researches aren't the only one's grabbing the public's attention. Recent articles and media have began to shine on a different angle- brain supplements. One particular company has been on the market for only one month and already signed on to sponsor a high school football combine this summer. Parents, coaches, and athletes should know this "brain supplement" does not require pre-FDA approval as it is a dietary supplement. Currently on the market, there are at least 5-10 products either in development or already post production under the label "brain supplement". The aim of the "brain supplements" composed of ingredients such as DHA (a plant derivative of omega-3) are to mitigate symptoms and effects of concussions. Currently, there is little to no research to support the effects of brain supplements. In addition, one company claimed his clinical trials, which were tested on his sample population of eighteen "concussed subjects"; claimed he would sign up with the FDA "retroactively" for the clinical trials. While a "magic pill" to resolve a concussion would be ideal, it is noteworthy to express this dietary supplement is no such pill. Researchers of the University of Texas, Arlington add, “Why do we want the brain to recover faster than it needs to? I’d rather have the brain just take its own recovery pattern and make sure each individual receives the appropriate medical care.” Research has indicated "rest" as being the ultimate source of healing for the brain. Additionally, evidence supports an early return can cause detrimental and long-lasting effects for a young athlete who returns to play quickly. Over 30 states have passed laws addressing the return to play protocol and to allow for appropriate healing time. (Be sure to check with your state legislation on the proper protocol for return to play). Currently, their are several more products to be released shortly-sometime this year-as the developmental stages continue. Endorsements with pro athletes in the NFL and Martial arts have already signed on to promote the effects of brain supplements. For parents, coaches, Athletic Trainers, and athletes the protocol for return to play must follow the guidelines of the state. In California, any athlete with a concussion must seek medical clearance prior to return to play, along with progressive exercises, rest, and time out of school. For more information on prevention and treatment of concussions as well as return to play, visit the Advocates for Injured Athletes webpage.

Athletes Saving Athletes Head to South Bay

The most recent Ambassadors for Advocates of Injured Athletes; athletes of Sweetwater High School head to the stands for a group shot after their participation and completion of the Athletes Saving Athletes program.

Athletes Saving Athletes featured on Yahoo

http://shine.yahoo.com/team-mom/advocates-injured-athletes-aims-arm-student-athletes-life-031200089.html

Athletes Saving Athletes featured on KPBS

http://www.kpbs.org/news/2012/mar/27/new-program-teaches-athletes-save-athletes/