Canadian Institute for Health Information press release

Number of cycling injuries remains stable over past decade but head injuries on the decline

July 28, 2011— Every day of the summer, an average of 45 Canadians are hospitalized for an injury resulting from a wheel- or water-based sport or recreational activity, according to new data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI). Wheeled sports include cycling, roller skating, skateboarding and using scooters, while water-related activities include swimming, diving, kayaking and boating, among others.
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Article reproduced from the Ontario Brain Injury Association newsletter, written by Jo Innes.

There can’t be a hockey discussion without a head injury discussion. It’s no surprise that day one of NHL GM meetings in Boca Raton has already produced policy changes that aim to increase player safety and reduce injury. Some of the changes will go into effect almost immediately; some will be implemented at the beginning of next season. Commissioner Gary Bettman laid it out in five steps:

1. Equipment changes – reduce the size without reducing the safety.
2. Revise concussion management protocols – have a doctor (not a trainer) make immediate return to play decisions.
3. Hold club and coach responsible for players with repeated offenses leading to supplemental discipline.
4. Study changes to rinks that can improve player safety – implement short-term fixes now, get rid of seamless glass for next season.
5. Establish a committee dedicated to continued study of the issue.

Can we talk about step 2? [Read more...]