Brain injuries not prevented by helmets, mouthguards, says study
New research shows that helmets and mouthguards may not be effective in preventing brain injuries in athletes.
Helmets and mouthguards may not protect athletes from brain injuries according to a new report.
Researchers found that while helmets and mouthguards may help, there is no clinical evidence that they prevent concussive brain injuries.
Even worse, helmets may give athletes a false sense of security.
“An important consideration in the use of protective equipment is the concept of risk compensation… where the use of (this) equipment results in behavioural change, such as the adoption of more dangerous playing techniques, which can result in a paradoxical increase in injury rates,” the report reads, said the Toronto Star.
Concussions are often caused by blows to the head.
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In recent years, controversy has arose over the head blows received during tackle football.
The conclusion was drawn up by panel of 32 international experts on brain injuries who looked over various reports and studies, said the MedPage Today.
The report was drawn up by researchers after last November's 4th International Conference on Concussion in Sport in Zurich, Switzerland.
The findings were published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.