Spotlight On New Concussion Rules

Head injuries have been highlighted in the news recently with football’s governing bodies FIFA and UEFA toughening up on rules and restrictions when a player has suffered a concussion.

The news comes after several players have been allowed to continue playing, despite losing consciousness on the field during play. The new initiative has the potential to save a life whether in the Premier League or at the grassroots level of the game.

The Hugo Lloris Debate

The concussion debate was reignited in the English Premier League last year when Hugo Lloris was allowed to continue playing, despite losing consciousness on the pitch during a match against Everton. The decision was made by both the coaching and medical staff combined and could have severely affected Lloris’ health.

Under new guidelines Hugo Lloris would have been automatically removed from the game after losing consciousness. There would have been no room for discussion and a substitution would have been made.

New Rules Explained

The new rules aim to strengthen current guidelines and cover ‘grey areas’ surrounding the actions to take when a player suffers a concussion. The rules will stop any players or managers overruling doctor’s opinions on a concussion. In summary:

• Any player who loses consciousness is automatically removed from the game
• Team managers / players no longer have the say on when a player continues. It is the responsibility of the club doctor.
• A third ‘tunnel doctor’ has been introduced to provide an independent opinion.
• The player must have 24 hours of mental and physical rest after the event and is not allowed to play for at least six days after a concussion. 
• The player must be cleared by the club doctor before being allowed to play again.

Why the New Rules?

The main reason for the new rulings is to protect the health of anyone playing football at all levels of the game.

A concussion is defined as a disturbance to the brain where it can shake and even bash against the skull. This could lead to associated bleeding that may not be visible in its early stages.

Anyone who has suffered a concussion needs to be thoroughly checked by a doctor to see if there is anything wrong internally.

These examinations undoubtedly save the lives of not only sportspeople but also everyday civilians who may be involved in an accident or a fall. It is never too late to go to hospital if feeling unwell after a head injury.