Why all of the concussions?

by Steeler Nation VA on Dec 29, 2011 9:28 AM EST

Is the reason for the cucussions that the game has gotten so much faster? I think that is part of the reason. Players are bigger and faster. The rules changes to allow more open ice skating has put players at risk for blind side hits. The strict enforcement of no hits to the head will decrease the amount of head hunting. The medical precautions when a concussion is suspected will decrease the number of 2nd hits which can make it even worse. But is that enough?

Hockey players wear helmets that are inferior to even high school football helmets from 20 years ago. Why can't hockey take football's lead and develop and mandate better helmets for all players? Is it that hockey players do not want to look like aliens? Develop better helmets with more padding/suspension, paint them black and put the logo on the right side only. You'll fit right in.

I agree player safety should be priority #1, but the equipment companies have a role to play.

Poll

Is the problem

Equipment

10 votes

Speed of the game

6 votes

Head hunters

3 votes

Who cares, what concussion problem

0 votes

It is the player's fault for getting hit

0 votes

19 votes | Poll has closed

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Could it also be possible that there actually isn’t an increase in concussions, but actually just an increase in concussions being diagnosed? we are starting to see retired players die from brain injuries sustained during their playing careers. would these players have lived if concussion testing was as in depth as it is today? I would say yes.
I do think there are more concussions today due to the size of the players, and speed of the game. But not as huge of a difference as we would think with the amount of players missing time. i think alot of this has to due to people finally seeing what concussions can do to the human brain over time, and are now taking concussions seriously and not just players jumping right back onto the ice, or management/coaches sending their players back out.

by BuccoBrigade on Dec 29, 2011 10:50 AM EST reply actions 1 recs

This ^

Put on your dancin' shoes.

by PensFan024 on Dec 29, 2011 11:28 AM EST up reply actions

The NFL

has not mandated anything in terms of safer helmets being worn.

They HAVE mandated that if you are a Steeler DB/LB and you hit a receiver legally or illegally, you will be flagged and fined at the very least, if not suspended. Included in this mandate is that there is dman near no such thing as an illegal hit on a member of the Steeler offense and that all of Pittsburgh’s receivers are most certainly not defenseless at any time, ever, for any reason. Period.

And thus spake GODdell.

by HandsofSweed on Dec 29, 2011 3:16 PM EST reply actions

The NFL and the equipment manufacturers have worked together to improve the helmets and to get them into high schools. You are correct they have not mandated the use of the safer helmets. It is a step in the right direction.

by Steeler Nation VA on Dec 29, 2011 4:01 PM EST via Android app up reply actions