New, stricter international guidelines for student athletes who suffer concussions during their sporting events has caused controversy among brain-injury experts, according to the New York Times.
In an article published by The British Journal of Sports Medicine, an international panel of neurologists recommends that any athlete who is 18 years or younger and sustains a concussion during practice or a game should not be allowed to return to the field the same day.
Doctors who work on the sidelines of these games believe the restrictions could cause major damage to players because student athletes will begin to hide their injuries from coaches and trainers.
Currently, these guidelines have not taken effect in the United States, as guidelines and recommendations are usually made at the local and state levels.
Additionally, the panel suggests teenagers who suffer concussions get physical and cognitive rest. Activities ranging from schoolwork, texting and video games should be banned while the student recovers from the concussion, the panel says.
For additional information, click here/