An NFL Nut.

Football stuff.

Steelers Mitchell

A Whack On The Head – The Long Term Effects

Remember the days when your parents threatened to knock some sense into you? Well, giving your noggin' a good swat isn't likely to do that. Current research is exploring the effect that concussions have on the development of cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's Disease in later life. The results so far are startling.

Concussion Facts

A concussion is the result of a blow to the head or any other body trauma that causes the head to move forcefully. The word "concussion" comes from the Latin word "concutere", meaning to shake violently. The brain is a gelatinous structure, normally encased in shock-absorbing fluid, but a severe blow can cause it to be banged against the bony skull. Result: concussion.

A concussion doesn't necessarily mean a loss of consciousness, although that can happen. More likely, a concussion disrupts brain function for a bit. It is much like a broken phone connection that gets re-routed – and when it finally comes through, there's lots of static and a time delay in communication.

Concussion can occur in any type of accident, but by far the greatest incidence is due to sports injuries. Believe it or not, 300,000 American athletes sustain a concussion each year.(1)

Head Banging Sports

Any contact sport can end up in concussive injury. Football, however, leads the pack. In a study conducted at Ohio State University, published in August 2009, 11.6% of injuries to high school students in sports were concussions. With 13,755 injuries reported from 2005-2008, football players had the most concussions.(2)

In another study, done at McGill University in Canada, researchers looked at data from 380 university football and 240 university soccer players for a one year period. 70.4% of the football players had experienced the symptoms of a concussion, while 84.6% of those players had more than one concussion. Only 23.4% of them realized they had sustained a concussion.(3) Not surprising since mental confusion is the major symptom.

NFL Research

Just released, on 10/9/09, is a new NFL study that has identified a higher rate of dementia and early onset Alzheimer's Disease among retired players. More alarming is that the study demonstrates cognitive impairment in players under the age of 50.

The study was conducted on 1,063 retired NFL players by the University of Michigan's Institute for Social Research at the request of the NFL. Considering the occurrence of memory problems, dementia or Alzheimer's, those conditions were present in 6.1% of players over age 50 – 5 times greater than the national average of 1.2%. Players aged 30-49 had a rate of 1.9% - 19 times more than the national average of 0.1%.(4)

Part of the problem is that a concussion is an injury you can't see. When a football player goes down with a broken bone, everyone knows he won't be back on the field until it is completely healed. But a concussion isn't always obvious. Even the player thinks he should "tough it out" and stay in the game.

Unseen Risks

Once you've had a concussion, you are much more vulnerable to having another one. And according to Joseph Maroon, team physician to the Pittsburgh Steelers and vice chair of the department of neurosurgery at the University of Pittsburgh, "If you return to football while still suffering the effects, the chances of having a more severe concussion, caused by less force, are greater." That's primarily true during recovery, he adds, "but we are finding that individuals who have had one or two concussions are more susceptible beyond the recovery period."(5)

Further, in a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, Kevin Guskiewicz of the University of North Carolina says that sustaining a concussion increases the chances of another one. "Based on the study, once you have had a concussion, within a seven-year window, you are at greater risk of sustaining another injury…Once you have had three or more concussions in seven years, you have at least three times more risk of sustaining another injury."(6)

Ongoing research will be gathering data as to what extent these repeated injuries lead to memory problems and Alzheimer's Disease in later life. So it would be wise to keep your head about you. Most likely you are not a pro athlete, but if you have a child or grandchild playing sports, be aware of symptoms of head injuries. And after a concussion or two, it might be time to change sports. "Young athletes", says Guskiewicz, "have an entire lifetime where they need to have good cognitive senses and abilities to function in society. You have to step back and look at the bigger picture."(7)

Please consult your health care provider before making any changes to your diet, exercise or supplement regimen.

Until next time.

Sources:

1. Tenenbaum, David, "Heading For Trouble", University of Wisconsin, Nov 20, 2003, whyfiles.org
2. Mitchell, Deborah, "Alzheimer's Disease, Memory Problems Common Among NFL Players", emaxhealth.com, Sep 30, 2009
3. Mitchell, Deborah, "Alzheimer's Disease, Memory Problems Common Among NFL Players", emaxhealth.com, Sep 30, 2009
4. Mitchell, Deborah, "Alzheimer's Disease, Memory Problems Common Among NFL Players", emaxhealth.com, Sep 30, 2009
5. Tenenbaum, David, "Heading For Trouble", University of Wisconsin, Nov 20, 2003, whyfiles.org
6. Tenenbaum, David, "Heading For Trouble", University of Wisconsin, Nov 20, 2003, whyfiles.org
7. Tenenbaum, David, "Heading For Trouble", University of Wisconsin, Nov 20, 2003, whyfiles.org

About the Author

Dr. Blankstein has been practicing for over 30 years as a leading Cardiologist. Trained in traditional medicine and Board Certified in both Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease, he knows the importance of good medical care. This consideration has allowed him to discover safe and natural ways of healing. His dedication to bringing the latest and best in health solutions to his patients and the public has given him the experience to research and develop proven natural remedies for many illnesses.

© 2009 Chesapeake Nutraceuticals

Which NFL Mitchell & Ness Jersey should I buy?

Looking at either Joe Montana (49ers) (Red) or Jack Lambert (Steelers) (Black)

What do you think?

Joe Montana.

Robert Farmer vs Lee Mitchell

Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Throwback Team Scarf $25.99 Whether you are cheering your heart out in the stands or showing off some team spirit at home- wrap this Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Throwback Team Scarf around your neck and witness your transformation into die-hard fan. Features embroidered team logos on both sides and inside fleece lining to keep you nice and toasty. A must-have addition to any Steelers fans wardrobe. 100% Acrylic Jacquarded team wordmark logo on one side with jacquarded Mitchell & Ness script on other side Specific team striping Officially licensed by the NFL

Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Sideline Track Jacket $155 Look like you belong on the sidelines with this incredibly stylish Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Sideline Track Jacket. Features embroidered twill logo at left chest and center back with Mitchell & Ness script embroidered on right cuff. Full zip front for easy on and off Multi colored knit rib collar- cuffs and waist Contrast color knit rib on front welt pockets Fully lined in Mitchell & Ness logo jacquard satin Machine washable cotton/polyester pique blend has traditional fit that provides roomier comfort in the body and sleeve Officially licensed by the NFL

Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Throwback Basic Logo Fitted Hat $27.99 Think back to the days of leather helmets and goal posts on goal lines- and relive the memories of your favorite Pittsburgh Steelers gridiron greats with this Pittsburgh Steelers Throwback Fitted Hat. Featuring a raised Pittsburgh Steelers throwback logo embroidery on front- this Pittsburgh Steelers Throwback Fitted Hat makes the perfect addition to any loyal Pittsburgh Steelers fan's headwear collection. Mitchell & Ness embroidery on back Contrast color button and undervisor make for added style 100% Wool Officially licensed by the NFL

Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Throwback Arch w/Logo Snapback Hat $23.99 Hey fans--if you are looking for a simple yet timeless way to display your Pittsburgh Steelers pride- then try this Mitchell & Ness hat on for size. With an adjustable back- bold team colors and quality construction- this Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Throwback Arch w/Logo Snapback Hat is the perfect addition to your growing collection of Steelers apparel. Adjustable back Six panel construction with eyelets Quality team logo and colors Officially licensed

Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Throwback Meshback Snapback Adjustable Hat $25.99 Relive the glory days of your Pittsburgh Steelers with this Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Throwback Meshback Snapback Adjustable Hat. This fashionable hat is the way to go if you want to add a little bit of old school flair to your wardrobe. Features high crown retro shape and a retro screen printed front graphic. A must-have for any die-hard Steelers fan. 100% Cotton Cotton front and visor Polyester mesh side and back panels Plastic snap closure Officially licensed by the NFL

Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Heathered NFL Playmaker Hoody $119.99 Need a comfy sweatshirt you can put on in good times and bad? This Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Heathered NFL Playmaker Hoody can be your new companion while you show some old-fashioned Steelers pride! This 100% cotton fleece hoodie features a vibrantly colored vintage embroidered Steelers logo at the left chest so that everyone will know you are a die-hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan. Hood lined with quilted contrast jersey Vintage garment washed Button front half placket with decorative topstitch detail Front kangaroo pocket Tailored fit style is a bit trimmer in the body and sleeve Machine washable and easy to wear Officially licensed by the NFL

Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Black Arch Full-Zip Hooded Fleece $89.99 Add a little splash of old school to your wardrobe with this Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Black Arch Full-Zip Hooded Fleece. This one-of-a-kind sweatshirt features a vibrantly colored team logo front and center that will be sure to show off your team spirit. Features a fleece body and comes with front pockets to keep you nice and warm as the temperatures drop. Add another piece to your massive collection of Steelers apparel with this cozy sweatshirt. 100% Cotton- 12 oz. fleece body Vintage Garment with rib side panels- cuffs and waistband Fits trimmer in the body and sleeve Machine washable and easy to wear Officially licensed

Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Throwback Script 2 Tone Adjustable Snapback Hat $23.99 Keep the tradition alive of being a stylish Pittsburgh Steelers fan with this Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Throwback Script 2 Tone Adjustable Snapback Hat. Made by Mitchell & Ness this adjustable snapback hat features embroidered team graphics and throwback team colors. This hat will make a impressive addition to your wardrobe collection. Adjustable back for desired comfort Six panel construction with eyelets Quality team logo and colors Officially licensed

Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Throwback Standard 2 Tone Adjustable Snapback Hat $23.99 Add a little bit of vintage style to your Pittsburgh Steelers wardrobe with this Pittsburgh Steelers Mitchell & Ness Throwback Standard 2 Tone Adjustable Snapback Hat. If you are a die-hard Steelers fan- you are sure to represent both the past and present with some stylish duds. This hat features a raised front embroidery and has a high crown retro shape to give it an old school feel. 100% Wool Mitchell & Ness back embroidery Contrast color visor- button and eyelets Plastic snap closure Officially licensed by the NFL

Pittsburgh Steelers Women's Mitchell & Ness Black Arch Full-Zip Hooded Fleece $89.99 Are you Pittsburgh Steelers obsessed? Check out this officially licensed Pittsburgh Steelers Women's Mitchell & Ness Black Arch Full-Zip Hooded Fleece. Brought to you by Mitchell & Ness- this 100% cotton hoodie features distressed screen print graphics- a retro-inspired design and two convenient front pockets. This quality piece of team gear promises to keep you cozy as you root for the Steelers on game day. Full zip Fleece lined hood Rib knit cuffs and bottoms Two front pockets Distressed screen print design 100% Cotton Officially licensed

Pittsburgh Steelers Black Mitchell & Ness Throwbacks Panel Down Snapback Adjustable Hat $25.99 Show off your Steelers team spirit with a little bit of old school flair. This Pittsburgh Steelers Black Mitchell & Ness Throwbacks Panel Down Snapback Adjustable Hat will do the trick of combining both elements. Features a raised embroidered team logo on front that will be sure to show off your tremendous Pittsburgh Steelers team pride. 100% Wool High crown retro shape Plastic snap closure Officially licensed by the NFL

Steelers $6.99 Steelers - Poster

MITCHELL,EDDY: EDDY MITCHELL $31.4 MITCHELL,EDDY: EDDY MITCHELL

Howie Mitchell : Howie Mitchell $15.71 Howie Mitchell : Howie Mitchell

Pittsburgh Steelers $6 Pittsburgh Steelers

Super Steelers $11.16 Super Steelers

Steelers Triviology $7.43 Steelers Triviology

The Pittsburgh Steelers $22.36 The Pittsburgh Steelers

Mitchell And Kenyon $12.99 Mitchell And Kenyon

Mitchell And Webb $7.99 Mitchell And Webb

Mitchell,Madeliene: Pieces for Madeleine Mitchell $15.79 Mitchell,Madeliene: Pieces for Madeleine Mitchell

MITCHELL,EDDY: EDDY PARIS MITCHELL $8.57 MITCHELL,EDDY: EDDY PARIS MITCHELL

Phil Mitchell $10 Phil Mitchell - Paul Burling

Beverley Mitchell $7.99 Beverley Mitchell - Photo

Yvonne Mitchell $7.99 Yvonne Mitchell - Photo

Radha Mitchell $7.99 Radha Mitchell - Photo

Thomas Mitchell $7.99 Thomas Mitchell - Photo

Elizabeth Mitchell $7.99 Elizabeth Mitchell - Photo

Cameron Mitchell $7.99 Cameron Mitchell - Photo

Beverly Mitchell $7.99 Beverly Mitchell - Photo

Guy Mitchell $7.99 Guy Mitchell - Photo

Paul Mitchell by Paul Mitchell $16.5 Paul Mitchell Soft Finishing Spray 16.9 oz.

All About Autographs AAA76162 Franco Harris Pittsburgh Steelers NFL Hand Signed Authentic Style Black Jersey $528.53 In the 1972 NFL draft Franco Harris was chosen by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round the 13th selection overall. His selection by the team was considered controversial at the time as many thought the team would select his Penn State teammate Lydell Mitchell. (Mitchell was later selected by the Baltimore Colts in the draft.) He played his first 12 years in the NFL with the Steelers; his 13th and final year (1984) was spent with the Seattle Seahawks. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990. This Product Includes: Authentic Autographed Item Certificate of Authenticity Tamper Resistent Holograms or Labels Personal PlayerAgent Hologram (when available).

All About Autographs AAA76164 Franco Harris Pittsburgh Steelers NFL Hand Signed Authentic Style White Jersey $528.53 In the 1972 NFL draft Franco Harris was chosen by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round the 13th selection overall. His selection by the team was considered controversial at the time as many thought the team would select his Penn State teammate Lydell Mitchell. (Mitchell was later selected by the Baltimore Colts in the draft.) He played his first 12 years in the NFL with the Steelers; his 13th and final year (1984) was spent with the Seattle Seahawks. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990. This Product Includes: Authentic Autographed Item Certificate of Authenticity Tamper Resistent Holograms or Labels Personal PlayerAgent Hologram (when available).

Mitchell $1.11 This classic ecru stationery has a navy blue border.

This entry was posted on Saturday, March 13th, 2010 at 6:43 am and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.