While high-impact sports can have physical health benefits, they also come with risks. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), American tackle football has the highest risk of brain injury compared to other contact sports. Football players also face the long-term risk of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) from repeated head injuries.
Understanding brain damage in American football can help you protect yourself and get the medical treatment and legal support you need if you’re hurt while playing.
Common Types of Brain Injuries in American Football
From professional athletes to recreational players, football-related head injuries are common occurrences. Here are the different types of football brain injuries players often experience.
Concussions
A concussion is a mild brain injury caused by a blow to the head or body. Players may suffer concussions in football games or practices when tackling, blocking, falling to the ground, or colliding with each other. The sudden jolt causes the brain to move or twist inside the skull, leading to these symptoms:
- Ear ringing
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Drowsiness or dizziness
- Confusion or inability to focus
- Forgetfulness
- Slurred or delayed speech
In more severe cases, there could also be long-term effects of concussions, including post-concussion syndrome. It’s vital to follow football concussion protocols to allow your brain to heal and avoid lasting complications.
Repetitive Head Trauma
Repetitive head trauma in contact sports like football can have serious effects on players that may show up later in life. Neurological damage from football is often connected to repeated head injuries that cause:
- Cognitive difficulties
- Changes in behavior or mood
- Depression
- Impaired memory
- Attention issues
- Sleep problems
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) in athletes can range from mild to severe, causing different symptoms for different players. On one end, football players may suffer a concussion and only need a few days to recover. However, the other end of the spectrum is a TBI that causes permanent and debilitating neurological effects.
Either way, players should seek immediate medical attention if they suffer a TBI. The frequency of American football brain damage is something to take seriously and should be considered when participating in high-impact sports.
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy: A Growing Concern
A significant concern facing football players is chronic traumatic encephalopathy or CTE. There is a connection between repeated head trauma and the devastating effects that CTE can have on athletes and their families.
What Is CTE?
CTE is a degenerative brain disease caused by repeated head trauma or injuries that damage the brain’s blood vessels and cells. The disorder is progressive, starting with manageable symptoms and eventually leading to dementia.
Symptoms of CTE
While symptoms will vary depending on the person and the progression of the disorder, common CTE symptoms include:
- Problems with concentration or focus
- Short-term memory issues
- Changes in behavior, such as angry outbursts
- Depression
- Difficulty speaking clearly
- Problems with balance
- Uncontrollable muscle movements or tremors
CTE typically starts slowly and gets worse with time, making it difficult to catch right away. Individuals with a history of repeated head trauma, such as football players, have a higher risk of developing CTE.
Long-Term Effects of CTE
CTE is a permanent condition that currently does not have a cure. After years or decades with CTE, people may lose the ability to care for themselves, move independently, or speak clearly.
Many people who suffer from CTE also have increasing depression and thoughts of self-harm. Studies have shown that athletes with CTE are more prone to suicidal behavior and ideation.
Risk Factors for Brain Injuries in Football
Although football is associated with head trauma, certain players may be more at risk for serious brain injuries. These factors affect the likelihood of a football player brain injury.
Age and Level of Play
Because children’s and young adults’ brains are still developing, they may be more susceptible to head injury damage. Playing football at a young age could increase the risk of repeated head trauma that causes brain damage later in life.
Additionally, playing football more often during youth and adolescence presents more chances for injury. Young players who are involved in tackle competitions or an advanced level of play could suffer more head trauma. In fact, tackle football players experience 15 times more head impacts than youth athletes who play flag football.
Position and Playing Style
Football positions that have a higher risk of head injuries are the ones most likely to be hit or tackled by another player, including:
- Offensive and defensive linemen
- Defensive backs
- Wide receivers
- Quarterbacks
- Tight ends
Playing style also factors into an athlete’s head injury risk. Players who are aggressive or reckless may experience more injuries in general, including concussions and head trauma.
Lack of Proper Safety Gear
If a football player is not wearing the proper helmet or protective gear during practice or a game, they could suffer preventable brain injuries. Likewise, safety gear must be worn correctly and consistently to get the protective benefits of the equipment.
Legal Rights of Injured Players
Injured football players’ rights will depend on several factors, including the circumstances that led to the injury and who was responsible.
Seeking Compensation for Football-Related Brain Injuries
If a football player’s brain injury was caused by negligence, intentional misconduct, or defective equipment, they may be entitled to compensation for their damages, such as:
- Medical bills
- Cost of future medical care
- Rehabilitation
- Loss of future wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Role of Sports Leagues and Organizations
Football leagues, schools, colleges, and other organizations involved in football should implement policies that require players to follow safety protocols, wear protective gear during games and practices, and use the correct techniques to lower their risk of head injury. Many teams also educate players on the risks involved with the sport and the effects of common football brain injuries.
Legal Precedents and High-Profile Cases
There have been multiple high-profile cases involving injured football players seeking damages. One notable lawsuit was brought by the family of National Football League (NFL) player Junior Seau. The family sued the NFL after Seau committed suicide while suffering from CTE, stating that the NFL did not sufficiently warn players about concussion risks.
Ultimately, the NFL settled the wrongful death lawsuit with Seau’s family and agreed to compensate families of retired players found to have CTE after their deaths.
Preventing Brain Injuries in Football
Although not every injury can be prevented, modern advances in technology and safety protocols can help football players avoid head trauma.
Improved Safety Protocols
Football leagues and organizations are enhancing player safety by implementing new rules and guidelines, such as:
- Wearing protective gear
- Undergoing a seasonal physical or check-up
- Stretching and warming up before games or practice
- Educating players on the rules and restrictions of the game
- Having medical supervision on staff
- Promoting good nutrition and proper hydration
- Raising helmet quality requirements
Advances in Helmet Technology
Football helmet technology continues to evolve, with the NFL allowing players to use Guardian Caps over their helmets. While this padded headgear was typically used during practice and training camps, they were not permitted during games. After seeing the significant reduction in concussions by players wearing Guardian Caps, the NFL agreed to let players decide if they want to wear them during games.
The NFL also introduced 12 new helmet designs for the 2024 season, including eight position-specific helmets for quarterbacks, linemen, and other high-risk positions. About 98% of all NFL players chose to wear a top-performing helmet for the season.
Importance of Early Detection and Treatment
Early detection and treatment of head trauma and brain injuries can help prevent complications and long-term symptoms for football players. Following post-concussion protocols and immediate testing are part of these efforts.
It’s essential to allow the brain to heal before suffering another TBI to lower the risk of repetitive injuries and developing CTE.
Brain Injuries in American Football FAQs
What Is Brain Damage in American Football?
Because American football is a high-impact contact sport, the risk of head trauma is high. Repeated head trauma or blows to the head can eventually lead to brain damage and neurological disorders.
How Many NFL Players Suffer From CTE?
It’s difficult to determine how many NFL players have CTE because it cannot be confirmed until after the player’s death through an autopsy. However, it’s possible to catch signs of CTE and rule out other possible causes with testing.
According to current data, more than 300 former NFL players were diagnosed with CTE after their deaths. Also, an alarming one-third of former players believe they have CTE from repeated head injuries.
What Are the 5 Symptoms of CTE?
The most common symptoms of CTE are:
- Memory loss
- Aggressive or impulsive behavioral changes
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
- Motor skill problems
- Cognitive and speech difficulties
Understanding the Risks and Taking Action
Football brain injuries have been shown to have long-term effects on players and their families. Even a mild concussion can lead to neurological damage and a lowered quality of life without the proper treatment. This makes legal awareness and preventative safety measures essential for football players.
If you or a loved one suffered a football brain injury or you suspect you have CTE after repeated head trauma, speak with a brain injury lawyer to learn more about your rights. You may qualify to take legal action if another party’s negligence led to your injury. Contact Morris Dewett now to schedule a free consultation.
