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SPRINGVILLE -- The American Academy of Neurology says athletes of all ages should be evaluated by a specialist if it is suspected that they have suffered a concussion. The group also encourages them to stay on the sidelines until they speak with a specialist.
But Springville High School athletic trainer Lisa Walker wonders if that will happen. She says Utah's Activities Association has similar guidelines, but that it's hard to find enough trainers to help out in all sports.
So what does that mean for football or other athletic leagues with younger children? Walker says, "I would say they are definitely lacking unless you've got a parent who is a licensed trainer."
Walker believes there is a lack of education when it comes to concussions and what an athletic trainer can do for the athletes. She also doesn't believe there is money to pay for the trainer. But Walker believes a medical professional should be at games to make sure no one suffers brain damage.
"Someone needs to be there who can recognize them and is a neutral party. It's pretty tough for a coach to remain neutral during a game," Walker says.
It may take something drastic to change minds. Walker says, "In some states it is law, which could come to pass in Utah. Whatever it is, we have to protect the kids. We can't say that finances are more important than the children."
She believes the best way to encourage more trainers is to educate as many people as possible about the seriousness of concussions.
E-mail: cwall@ksl.com
