The brain sits in the cranium, surrounded by cerebral fluid. When a severe blow to the head occurs, the brain may collide with the cranium, then “bounce back” and collide with the opposite side of the cranium. At the neuronal level, a concussive blow to the head results in a twisting or stretching of the axons, creating swelling. Eventually, the swelling may subside, and neurons may return to normal functioning. However, if the swelling of axons is severe enough, these axons may disintegrate and even cause permanent damage. Many athletes will experience multiple concussions throughout their careers. Recently, in the U.S., the NFL has stated that it expects 1 in 3 former players to develop long-term cognitive issues.
1. What is a sport in your assigned country where concussions can and commonly occur? Football
2. What are at least two specific brain structures at risk of being affected by a concussion in this sport? What are the functions of these brain structures?
3. Based on the functions of the specific brain structures you chose, what are some temporary symptoms an individual may experience from trauma to those areas? What long-term issues can be seen from permanent damage to those areas in the brain? (Note – all these symptoms should be linked to the functions of the structures you discuss in question 2!)
4. Find one example of a player who experienced issues following a concussion from the sport in your assigned country you listed above in question 1. Explain what happened to this individual and how it affected their life.
5. Are there any regulations for this sport in that country? What are those regulations, and do you believe they are sufficient (why or why not)?
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