There has been a great deal of attention recently given to the relationship between brain injuries and sports. Most of the focus has been on the cumulative effects of concussions and violent, contact sports such as football, but surprisingly many non-contact sports and recreational activities have a higher incidence of brain injuries, with cycling having the highest numbers.
With summer practically upon us, the brain injury experts at Jamaica Hospital’s Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Unit are determined to warn the community about the potential dangers associated with cycling, as well as identify the signs and symptoms of concussive injuries.
In two separate interviews, with the Queens Chronicle and the Times Ledger newspapers, Dr. Gonzalo Vasquez-Casals, Neuro-Psychologist pointed out that of the 446,000 sports-related brain injuries treated at hospital in 2009, 85,000 or roughly 20% were due to cycling.
In the Times Ledger article, which appeared on May 3rd, Dr. Vasquez-Casals informed readers that headaches, confusion, disorientation, dizziness, slurred speech, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue are potential signs of a concussion.
In the article, which ran in the Queens Chronicle on April 29th, Dr. Vasquez-Casals warned riders that helmets are the best way to safeguard against cycling injuries. According to Dr. Vasquez-Casals, “97% of all fatal accidents involving bicycles are due to brain injuries when a rider wasn’t wearing a helmet.”
Dr. Vasquez-Casals was very hopeful that the message was well received and that cyclists in the community will enjoy a fun and safe summer on the bike paths.