Top doc blasts concussion protocol as NONSENSE
RUGBY LEAGUE has been slated by a top brain specialist for allowing players to return from concussion after just six days.
Dr Willie Stewart said: “It is just nonsense. I would say it should be a minimum of two to three weeks.
“One of our big anxieties is this rush to get people back playing when the brain needs time to heal.
“The current protocols would have you back in six days. None of us who work with brains are comfortable with that.”
Stewart (inset) revealed his fears on the Mantality podcast with ex-leeds captain Stevie Ward, who was forced to retire in January because of severe concussion issues.
Ward, 27, admits it scares him hearing about the possible short and long-term health problems players are unwittingly running the risk of. But Ward, who still has major problems with balance, migraines and mood swings, says he is determined to try and prevent others from going through what he is.
He said: “One of my big passions is to create a centre for people who are suffering these injuries, away from the pressure of sport and the win-at-all-costs mentality.” Stewart, a consultant neuropathologist and a professor at Glasgow University, added: “I would rather go down the line of boxing, where fighters have a licence that can be suspended for a period of weeks. “Boxing learned decades ago that if you do not manage brain injuries properly, then the entire industry is going to shut down because it is just not safe.”
The RFL said: “All players follow a Graduated Return to Play Protocol, with minimum time periods and a gradual increase in the intensity of exercise.
“However, some players will take longer than the minimum.
“A player cannot start GRTP until he is symptom-free and can only move on to the next stage if he is symptom-free at that level of exercise.
“The six-day stand-down is a minimum and subject to medical supervision.”
Players, who have a full neurological baseline assessment in pre-season, must see a concussion specialist if they suffer more than one head injury.