Head injuries to children playing sports

The New York Times reported on Saturday that children aged 5 to 18 suffer at least 96,000 sports-related head injuries each year in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control.  According to the CDC, head injuries suffered while the brain is still developing are potentially more damaging and more should be done to assist children with recovery.  The Times article emphasized the value of rest after an injury and the fact that only before- and after- neuropsychological testing can really define the care needed by a victim.  The article noted that persons at particular risk of suffering long-term complications include persons who have suffered prior head injuries, persons with pre-existing psychological, psychiatric, seizure or hyperactivity disorders, and for some reason not presently understood, women.