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Health & Fitness

Play it Safe: Know How to Protect Your Head This Season August is Neurosurgery Outreach Month

By James Chimenti, M.D., neurosurgeon at Somerset Medical Center

This August is Neurosurgery Outreach Month, established by the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, to educate people on their role in preventing neurological injuries. In recognition of kids, teens, and professional athletes around the country who are gearing up for pre-season training and fall sports, the focus of this month’s outreach is placed on patient safety.

As people get ready to hit the field or court to participate in their athletic sport, it is vital to take the proper precautions in protecting themselves from potential head injuries. However, not all head injuries occur while playing a sport. Follow the tips below to maximize your protection and safety, while reducing your risk of suffering a potential head injury.

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·         Sports-related tips:

o        Wear helmets or head gear that is properly fitted to the head, at all times while playing sports or while engaging in physical activities

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o        Do not engage in physical activities or sports under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or when you are sick or tired

o        Avoid uneven surfaces when playing a sport

o        Do not use old and/or damaged equipment

o        Perform safety checks of fields and courts

o        Wear appropriate clothing that does not impair your vision

o        Do not play any contact sports without consulting your physician

·         General tips:

o        Avoid falls in the home by installing handrails on staircases, using a stool to reach high objects, using non-slip mats on floors, installing grab bars in the shower, removing hazardous cords or rugs in the way, keeping the house tidy with no obstructions

o        Maintain a regular exercise program to improve your strength, balance and coordination

o        Obey all traffic signals and be aware of your surroundings when driving

o        Wear a seatbelt at all times in a moving vehicle, and make sure children are buckled into an appropriate child safety seat

o        Supervise young children at all times and avoid their time around areas with hard surfaces

o        Never drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs

o        Obey all rules at public swimming pools, parks and beaches

o        Keep your children from jumping on beds, and do not install bunk beds in your home

o        Walk on sidewalks, whenever possible

With one person in the U.S. sustaining a brain injury every 21 seconds, education and prevention is essential in improving the health of ourselves, our loved ones, and those in the community. Whether you are prepping for pre-season sports, or not, take the lead in your head and increase the safety in everything you do by following the tips provided. In honor of Neurosurgery Outreach Month, I encourage you to keep educating yourself on this topic, and to reach out to your physician if you have any questions or concerns about your health.

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