At one time, the only criteria for the purchase of athletic socks were that they be white and absorbent. A similar purchase today requires an advanced degree in materials management.
High quality athletic attire is often made from materials that have wicking and antimicrobial properties. Wicking materials are typically synthetics that lift moisture away from the skin. This creates a dry barrier between the body and garment. Names like “Dri-Lex” and “Dri-Fit” indicate that these wicking compounds are present.
Antimicrobial materials are designed to keep the article of clothing free of bacteria, fungi and mold. This reduces the chance for infecting any open wound. The use of silver-embedded fibers creates these antimicrobial capabilities.
Socks are among the articles of athletic attire that benefit most from these features. Constant friction between the foot and shoe will result in blisters. The combination of moisture and heat in a closed environment with an open wound will cause infection. Sharing unlaundered socks can cause spread of bacteria like MRSA.
“The key factors to choosing proper athletic socks are stitching and materials,” said Dr. Joseph Di Francesca, a Norwich podiatrist on the Backus Hospital Medical Staff.
The best socks are those that have no stitching since these serve as a source of irritation. He agrees that materials should be both wicking and antimicrobial. Di Francesca recommends socks made from merino wool since they have natural wicking properties and silver-based fibers that reduce infection and odor.
While these developments are the result of efforts to create a better athletic sock, the cross-over to non-athletic activities is easily understood. Many people who spend long hours on their feet, as well as those who suffer from chronic medical conditions such as diabetes and vascular disease, have also benefitted greatly.
While the purchase of athletic socks should not become a major life decision, there is more to it than just color.
Blind golf challenges and inspires
Sports fans love an underdog. The ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds has been a source of admiration since David took on Goliath.
After watching professional golfers at the US Open and Traveler’s Championship, some would say just playing the game of golf is sufficiently challenging. Most impressive is when the game is played by athletes who are legally blind.
Blind golf traces its roots in the United States to 1925 when Clint Russell began playing after losing his sight in an accident. The United States Blind Golf Association was established in 1947 and has since been sponsoring organized tournaments.
Interestingly, there is little variation from the traditional rules of golf. Blind golfers work with a coach who is responsible for aligning the club and giving information on distance and direction. The only other significant variation is the ability to ground the club in a hazard before making a shot.
A blind golfer’s coach is more than a caddy as their relationship involves a high level of trust.
Guiding Eyes for the Blind sponsors the Corcoran Cup Masters Invitational golf tournament at the Mt. Kisco Country Club in New York. The field consists of the top 16 blind golfers in the country.
“Sponsoring this tournament over the past 30 years has become a fundamental part of our mission to allow blind and visually impaired people to compete on an equal playing field,” said Michelle Brier, marketing manager at Guiding Eyes. The day following the tournament, blind golfers play in foursomes with sighted golfers as part of a fundraising event.
Golf requires athletic ability and skill. One of the fringe benefits for all golfers is the camaraderie of sharing the experience with others.
Although golf has a significant “visual” component, success is measured by the “sound” of the ball hitting the bottom of the cup.
After watching professional golfers at the US Open and Traveler’s Championship, some would say just playing the game of golf is sufficiently challenging. Most impressive is when the game is played by athletes who are legally blind.
Blind golf traces its roots in the United States to 1925 when Clint Russell began playing after losing his sight in an accident. The United States Blind Golf Association was established in 1947 and has since been sponsoring organized tournaments.
Interestingly, there is little variation from the traditional rules of golf. Blind golfers work with a coach who is responsible for aligning the club and giving information on distance and direction. The only other significant variation is the ability to ground the club in a hazard before making a shot.
A blind golfer’s coach is more than a caddy as their relationship involves a high level of trust.
Guiding Eyes for the Blind sponsors the Corcoran Cup Masters Invitational golf tournament at the Mt. Kisco Country Club in New York. The field consists of the top 16 blind golfers in the country.
“Sponsoring this tournament over the past 30 years has become a fundamental part of our mission to allow blind and visually impaired people to compete on an equal playing field,” said Michelle Brier, marketing manager at Guiding Eyes. The day following the tournament, blind golfers play in foursomes with sighted golfers as part of a fundraising event.
Golf requires athletic ability and skill. One of the fringe benefits for all golfers is the camaraderie of sharing the experience with others.
Although golf has a significant “visual” component, success is measured by the “sound” of the ball hitting the bottom of the cup.
Readers weigh in with innovative employee wellness programs
Two weeks ago there was a discussion of wellness programs implemented by employers. These programs have been proven to reduce health care expenses and absenteeism while improving morale. Since publishing that column, several employers have presented some innovative ways they have approached employee health and wellness.
American Ambulance of Norwich held a fitness challenge for employees where three teams of 13 were awarded points for making healthy lifestyle choices.
“This challenge was not about weight loss but was instead designed to promote healthy habits for staff and their families,” said Janet Welch, director of human resources. Some choices included tai chi classes and family ski trips.
Bruce Bumpus is a director of Web Industries Hartford and reports that they have a program titled “Step up to the Plate.” It is designed around a baseball format extending over nine weeks/innings. Teams score runs based on their cardiovascular workouts. They have been able to attain 91% employee participation.
Carl Mailhot posted a comment on this blog. His company, Eastern Connecticut Rehabilitation Center, has partnered with employers to design wellness and fitness programs. Their programs include pre-shift stretching, wellness education and worksite-safety. They also provide a physical therapist for consultation regarding ergonomic issues.
If your company has an innovative approach to wellness, send it along to aalessi@wwbh.org.
Another update: this week Governor M. Jodi Rell signed into law a bill requiring that an automatic external defibrillator be available at all scholastic sports activities.
This law is the result of the efforts of Lawrence and Evelyn Pontbriant in memory of their son, Larry. By joining forces with the Connecticut Athletic Trainers Association, they have been able to enact legislation that will save young lives. All parents owe them a debt of gratitude for their perseverance.
American Ambulance of Norwich held a fitness challenge for employees where three teams of 13 were awarded points for making healthy lifestyle choices.
“This challenge was not about weight loss but was instead designed to promote healthy habits for staff and their families,” said Janet Welch, director of human resources. Some choices included tai chi classes and family ski trips.
Bruce Bumpus is a director of Web Industries Hartford and reports that they have a program titled “Step up to the Plate.” It is designed around a baseball format extending over nine weeks/innings. Teams score runs based on their cardiovascular workouts. They have been able to attain 91% employee participation.
Carl Mailhot posted a comment on this blog. His company, Eastern Connecticut Rehabilitation Center, has partnered with employers to design wellness and fitness programs. Their programs include pre-shift stretching, wellness education and worksite-safety. They also provide a physical therapist for consultation regarding ergonomic issues.
If your company has an innovative approach to wellness, send it along to aalessi@wwbh.org.
Another update: this week Governor M. Jodi Rell signed into law a bill requiring that an automatic external defibrillator be available at all scholastic sports activities.
This law is the result of the efforts of Lawrence and Evelyn Pontbriant in memory of their son, Larry. By joining forces with the Connecticut Athletic Trainers Association, they have been able to enact legislation that will save young lives. All parents owe them a debt of gratitude for their perseverance.
Employee fitness contributes to overall wellness
Controversy erupted in Hartford last week when gym equipment for employees to exercise was installed in a lunchroom. This step toward improving the health and fitness of city employees sparked outrage among several city council members.
Many companies and municipalities have been instituting health and wellness programs in an effort to control skyrocketing health costs. Results have shown that any investment in fitness yields benefits including decreased absenteeism, reduced medical costs and better morale.
In challenging economic times, wellness and other forms of preventive care should be viewed as a necessity rather than a luxury.
Several local employers, both large and small, provide a variety of opportunities aimed at keeping their work force healthy. Programs include smoking cessation and stress management, along with onsite fitness centers and discounted gym memberships.
The Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics provides multiple programs for employees.
“Maintaining and staffing an onsite fitness center is only part of our comprehensive health and wellness strategy,” said Alvin Ayers, Director of Health, Wellness and Disability Benefits.
Since 1985, EB has had a fully equipped fitness center open 24/7 and staffed by fitness specialists. Approximately 700 employees regularly utilize the facility that includes cardio and resistance equipment. Other programs include yoga, aerobics and nutrition. EB’s proactive commitment to health has paid off in morale and fitness of the workforce according to Ayers.
Dime Savings Bank provides a fitness facility at its main branch in Norwich but faces the challenge of involving employees at other branches in wellness programs.
“Dime provides discounted local gym memberships for all employees, as well as sponsoring competitive fitness challenges among the various branches,” reports Cheryl Calderado, Senior Vice President for Administration at Dime.
Frequently used fitness equipment is always a good investment, especially in tough economic times. If your company has a fitness center or unique approach to wellness, contact me at aalessi@wwbh.org.
Many companies and municipalities have been instituting health and wellness programs in an effort to control skyrocketing health costs. Results have shown that any investment in fitness yields benefits including decreased absenteeism, reduced medical costs and better morale.
In challenging economic times, wellness and other forms of preventive care should be viewed as a necessity rather than a luxury.
Several local employers, both large and small, provide a variety of opportunities aimed at keeping their work force healthy. Programs include smoking cessation and stress management, along with onsite fitness centers and discounted gym memberships.
The Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics provides multiple programs for employees.
“Maintaining and staffing an onsite fitness center is only part of our comprehensive health and wellness strategy,” said Alvin Ayers, Director of Health, Wellness and Disability Benefits.
Since 1985, EB has had a fully equipped fitness center open 24/7 and staffed by fitness specialists. Approximately 700 employees regularly utilize the facility that includes cardio and resistance equipment. Other programs include yoga, aerobics and nutrition. EB’s proactive commitment to health has paid off in morale and fitness of the workforce according to Ayers.
Dime Savings Bank provides a fitness facility at its main branch in Norwich but faces the challenge of involving employees at other branches in wellness programs.
“Dime provides discounted local gym memberships for all employees, as well as sponsoring competitive fitness challenges among the various branches,” reports Cheryl Calderado, Senior Vice President for Administration at Dime.
Frequently used fitness equipment is always a good investment, especially in tough economic times. If your company has a fitness center or unique approach to wellness, contact me at aalessi@wwbh.org.
Haitian Soccer Success
Four years ago the Haitian Health Foundation embarked upon a bold effort using participation in a girl’s soccer program as a reward for completing a course in responsible sexuality. The result has been a movement and the establishment of the first organized women’s soccer league in Haiti.
After first reporting this story in a Healthy Sports feature last year, many local citizens and institutions have provided assistance in the form of monetary donations and equipment. Thanks to this support, the program has spread to more remote areas of Haiti and nearly 1,700 girls are enrolled in this year’s course. When taking into consideration past graduates, there will be a total of 52 teams of girls ages 13-19 playing this summer.
What these athletes lack in equipment they make up for in desire and effort. In many villages it has become a source of parental pride to have a daughter play for a team. Empowerment and confidence are two of the attributes that are readily apparent when chatting with players.
Although this program has developed a healthy outlet for these women in regard to personal fitness, the question of whether or not it has resulted in healthier sexual practices remains. Studies comparing the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases and teenage pregnancy before the program and since are ongoing. Initial reports, although anecdotal, indicate both these parameters are declining since the program started.
Dr. Jeremiah Lowney is founder and president of the Norwich-based Haitian Health Foundation. “Athletic participation is always a positive distraction for young people. The girl’s soccer league in rural Haiti will result in a healthier population of future mothers. They also receive health information to pass onto their daughters. This program will span generations,” said Lowney.
If you wish to find out more about the HHF soccer program or make a financial or equipment donation, the blog is www.hhfsoccer.wordpress.com and the website is www.haitianhealthfoundation.org.
After first reporting this story in a Healthy Sports feature last year, many local citizens and institutions have provided assistance in the form of monetary donations and equipment. Thanks to this support, the program has spread to more remote areas of Haiti and nearly 1,700 girls are enrolled in this year’s course. When taking into consideration past graduates, there will be a total of 52 teams of girls ages 13-19 playing this summer.
What these athletes lack in equipment they make up for in desire and effort. In many villages it has become a source of parental pride to have a daughter play for a team. Empowerment and confidence are two of the attributes that are readily apparent when chatting with players.
Although this program has developed a healthy outlet for these women in regard to personal fitness, the question of whether or not it has resulted in healthier sexual practices remains. Studies comparing the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases and teenage pregnancy before the program and since are ongoing. Initial reports, although anecdotal, indicate both these parameters are declining since the program started.
Dr. Jeremiah Lowney is founder and president of the Norwich-based Haitian Health Foundation. “Athletic participation is always a positive distraction for young people. The girl’s soccer league in rural Haiti will result in a healthier population of future mothers. They also receive health information to pass onto their daughters. This program will span generations,” said Lowney.
If you wish to find out more about the HHF soccer program or make a financial or equipment donation, the blog is www.hhfsoccer.wordpress.com and the website is www.haitianhealthfoundation.org.
Make way for roller derby resurgence
Competitive sports are among the most popular forms of entertainment in the world.
Sometimes a sport is more heavily weighted on the entertainment aspect rather than competition. In either situation, the physical demands on participants can be dramatic. This is certainly the case with roller derby.
Originating in the mid-western United States in the 1920s, roller derby is now undergoing a resurgence among fitness-minded women who demand excitement as part of their work outs. The athletic aspect of the sport demands excellent balance, strength and stamina. The entertainment side is pure fun for participants and audience.
A team consists of five “derby girls” on the track at any time. Points are scored when a player who is designated as a jammer is able to lap opposing players. This can only be done during a two minute period known as a jam.
Like all skating sports, core body strength is essential for success in roller derby. Each hour of participation burns approximately 400 calories. In addition to leg strength required for skating, upper body fitness is necessary to block opponents.
Cardiovascular stamina is a big factor in withstanding the 20-minute periods of skating, blocking and maneuvering. Strategy plays an important role in success. Players must be aware of offensive and defensive opportunities.
Debra Frank is a nurse from Mystic who recently decided to follow a childhood dream of joining a roller derby team. She began by trying out for the Connecticut Roller Girls this spring and is one of only seven new recruits.
“Roller derby attracts people from all walks of life, levels of education and ethnicities who wish to participate in a sport that allows you to step out of your current existence and into an alter ego,” said Frank.
Roller derby is certainly not a conventional sport, but it provides an excellent outlet for women to get in shape, relieve life’s frustrations and enjoy the
camaraderie of others.
Sometimes a sport is more heavily weighted on the entertainment aspect rather than competition. In either situation, the physical demands on participants can be dramatic. This is certainly the case with roller derby.
Originating in the mid-western United States in the 1920s, roller derby is now undergoing a resurgence among fitness-minded women who demand excitement as part of their work outs. The athletic aspect of the sport demands excellent balance, strength and stamina. The entertainment side is pure fun for participants and audience.
A team consists of five “derby girls” on the track at any time. Points are scored when a player who is designated as a jammer is able to lap opposing players. This can only be done during a two minute period known as a jam.
Like all skating sports, core body strength is essential for success in roller derby. Each hour of participation burns approximately 400 calories. In addition to leg strength required for skating, upper body fitness is necessary to block opponents.
Cardiovascular stamina is a big factor in withstanding the 20-minute periods of skating, blocking and maneuvering. Strategy plays an important role in success. Players must be aware of offensive and defensive opportunities.
Debra Frank is a nurse from Mystic who recently decided to follow a childhood dream of joining a roller derby team. She began by trying out for the Connecticut Roller Girls this spring and is one of only seven new recruits.
“Roller derby attracts people from all walks of life, levels of education and ethnicities who wish to participate in a sport that allows you to step out of your current existence and into an alter ego,” said Frank.
Roller derby is certainly not a conventional sport, but it provides an excellent outlet for women to get in shape, relieve life’s frustrations and enjoy the
camaraderie of others.
As outdoor activities increase, so does tick risk
Spring has finally arrived in New England and opportunities for outdoor activities abound. Along with many of these, there is increased exposure to tick-borne illnesses.
Tick-borne illnesses include a variety of infections transmitted among animals (including humans) by ticks.
A tick will feed on an infected animal, the tick then becomes infected and passes the bacteria along by lodging itself in the skin of other animals and humans.
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is the most common tick-borne illness in the United States. In the northeast, Lyme disease is the most well-known. Diseases such as Ehrlichiosis and Babesiosis, while still rare, are gradually becoming more recognized.
Hiking, mountain biking, fishing and golf are among the activities where participants are most vulnerable to tick bites and potential Lyme disease. Following some basic rules can prevent infection:
• Stay on trails and avoid walking through high grass. This warning is especially important for golfers who invariably find themselves searching for an errant golf ball.
• Minimize exposed skin. Although it is recommended that long trousers and sleeves be worn, this is often not practical. Insect repellent should be applied liberally on any exposed area. Carefully read the label and be sure that it contains DEET and will be effective against ticks.
• Self-examine every three hours while in the field and more thoroughly after the activity. Showering to remove any residue from repellents is crucial and a good opportunity to search for ticks. Children must also be vigilantly examined, especially on the scalp.
• Four-legged companions are also susceptible and repellents such as “Frontline” are recommended by many veterinarians. Brushing with a fine comb after a hike can often find hidden ticks.
• Immediate removal of a tick is imperative. A tweezer works best and the area should be cleansed with antiseptic after removal.
When out on the golf course, pause before going into the deep grass to retrieve your ball or a newly found treasure.
Anthony G. Alessi, MD, is Chief of Neurology at The William W. Backus Hospital and in private practice at NeuroDiagnostics, LLC, in Norwich. E-mail him at aalessi@wwbh.org, or listen to his podcasts, comment on his blog or buy his book at backushospital.org.
Tick-borne illnesses include a variety of infections transmitted among animals (including humans) by ticks.
A tick will feed on an infected animal, the tick then becomes infected and passes the bacteria along by lodging itself in the skin of other animals and humans.
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is the most common tick-borne illness in the United States. In the northeast, Lyme disease is the most well-known. Diseases such as Ehrlichiosis and Babesiosis, while still rare, are gradually becoming more recognized.
Hiking, mountain biking, fishing and golf are among the activities where participants are most vulnerable to tick bites and potential Lyme disease. Following some basic rules can prevent infection:
• Stay on trails and avoid walking through high grass. This warning is especially important for golfers who invariably find themselves searching for an errant golf ball.
• Minimize exposed skin. Although it is recommended that long trousers and sleeves be worn, this is often not practical. Insect repellent should be applied liberally on any exposed area. Carefully read the label and be sure that it contains DEET and will be effective against ticks.
• Self-examine every three hours while in the field and more thoroughly after the activity. Showering to remove any residue from repellents is crucial and a good opportunity to search for ticks. Children must also be vigilantly examined, especially on the scalp.
• Four-legged companions are also susceptible and repellents such as “Frontline” are recommended by many veterinarians. Brushing with a fine comb after a hike can often find hidden ticks.
• Immediate removal of a tick is imperative. A tweezer works best and the area should be cleansed with antiseptic after removal.
When out on the golf course, pause before going into the deep grass to retrieve your ball or a newly found treasure.
Anthony G. Alessi, MD, is Chief of Neurology at The William W. Backus Hospital and in private practice at NeuroDiagnostics, LLC, in Norwich. E-mail him at aalessi@wwbh.org, or listen to his podcasts, comment on his blog or buy his book at backushospital.org.
“Brain gyms” can build intellectual muscle
Physical exercise is well-known to help brain function. A regimen of regular exercise has been shown to slow the progression of neurologic diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. There is now information suggesting that improved cognitive ability may result in more competitive athletic performance.
Previously it was believed that the brain could not repair or reorganize the networks contained within it. More recently, terms like “neural plasticity” and “cortical reorganization” have been used to describe these mechanisms of recovery. They are witnessed after stroke or brain trauma and result from early intervention in the form of aggressive physical, occupational and speech rehabilitation.
People beginning to experience memory deficits and difficulty completing complex tasks they previously found easy are turning to so called “brain gyms.”
Facilities such as Vibrant Brains, Nifty after Fifty and Sparks of Genius set up mental workouts for patrons on a variety of computer programs. These workouts are designed by trainers and are based on cognitive weaknesses.
“Cognitive rehabilitation has always emphasized improvement of attention skills,” said Dr. Christopher Tolsdorf, a neuropsychologist who specializes in neuropsychometric testing in his Norwich office. “This is best accomplished by memorization. This alone will improve the ability to attend, concentrate and focus.”
Tolsdorf is a fan of teaching children rote memorization of academic material.
Tolsdorf also believes that focusing on one skill like crossword puzzles or Sudoku will only make someone better at those games. Variety is an important factor in rebuilding cognition.
Several brain gyms combine mental and physical exercise with classes on improved nutrition. Many participants have attributed improved athletic performance in sports like tennis and golf to their increased attentiveness.
While the benefits of brain gyms are based on conjecture and theory rather than accepted scientific proof, the concept that diet and physical exercise improve brain function is well-documented in scientific literature.
You may want to quickly memorize a sonnet as part of your warm-up on the driving range.
Previously it was believed that the brain could not repair or reorganize the networks contained within it. More recently, terms like “neural plasticity” and “cortical reorganization” have been used to describe these mechanisms of recovery. They are witnessed after stroke or brain trauma and result from early intervention in the form of aggressive physical, occupational and speech rehabilitation.
People beginning to experience memory deficits and difficulty completing complex tasks they previously found easy are turning to so called “brain gyms.”
Facilities such as Vibrant Brains, Nifty after Fifty and Sparks of Genius set up mental workouts for patrons on a variety of computer programs. These workouts are designed by trainers and are based on cognitive weaknesses.
“Cognitive rehabilitation has always emphasized improvement of attention skills,” said Dr. Christopher Tolsdorf, a neuropsychologist who specializes in neuropsychometric testing in his Norwich office. “This is best accomplished by memorization. This alone will improve the ability to attend, concentrate and focus.”
Tolsdorf is a fan of teaching children rote memorization of academic material.
Tolsdorf also believes that focusing on one skill like crossword puzzles or Sudoku will only make someone better at those games. Variety is an important factor in rebuilding cognition.
Several brain gyms combine mental and physical exercise with classes on improved nutrition. Many participants have attributed improved athletic performance in sports like tennis and golf to their increased attentiveness.
While the benefits of brain gyms are based on conjecture and theory rather than accepted scientific proof, the concept that diet and physical exercise improve brain function is well-documented in scientific literature.
You may want to quickly memorize a sonnet as part of your warm-up on the driving range.
YMCA closure limits fitness options when they are needed most
Diet and exercise are critical to reducing chronic illness. Any program that incorporates these elements demands discipline. During challenging economic times establishing good health habits becomes more difficult since there are increased demands on time. Another unanticipated obstacle is that affordable, easily accessed opportunities for fitness are more difficult to find.
Many small cities and towns have been able to offer community facilities where people can participate in activities such as swimming, team sports and athletic classes at minimal cost. These facilities typically rely on a precarious combination of public funding, donations and membership fees to meet their obligations. In the past year many have experienced a decline in all three revenue sources while being faced with increasing expenses. These facilities are now closing their doors -- leaving many without access to a variety of activities.
In Norwich, it has been the YMCA that has provided an indoor pool where infants and toddlers learn to swim. The elderly participate in aquatic exercise programs to ease the excess strain on arthritic joints. A licensed daycare facility helps relieve some of the pressure on working families while providing a sports diversion to many young people. Unfortunately, the Norwich YMCA will be closing this week.
“No program at the YMCA is designed to make money,” said Attorney Michael Lahan, who serves as chairman of the volunteer board responsible for managing the Norwich branch of the YMCA. “All membership fees go directly to supporting programs that help others. The physical plant at the downtown location is an integral part of the city and the only way to survive will be through a coalition of organizations.”
It is no secret that health costs are rising rapidly in the United States. Much of those dollars go to treating chronic problems like obesity, hypertension and diabetes. It’s time we begin to invest these resources for prevention rather than treatment.
Many small cities and towns have been able to offer community facilities where people can participate in activities such as swimming, team sports and athletic classes at minimal cost. These facilities typically rely on a precarious combination of public funding, donations and membership fees to meet their obligations. In the past year many have experienced a decline in all three revenue sources while being faced with increasing expenses. These facilities are now closing their doors -- leaving many without access to a variety of activities.
In Norwich, it has been the YMCA that has provided an indoor pool where infants and toddlers learn to swim. The elderly participate in aquatic exercise programs to ease the excess strain on arthritic joints. A licensed daycare facility helps relieve some of the pressure on working families while providing a sports diversion to many young people. Unfortunately, the Norwich YMCA will be closing this week.
“No program at the YMCA is designed to make money,” said Attorney Michael Lahan, who serves as chairman of the volunteer board responsible for managing the Norwich branch of the YMCA. “All membership fees go directly to supporting programs that help others. The physical plant at the downtown location is an integral part of the city and the only way to survive will be through a coalition of organizations.”
It is no secret that health costs are rising rapidly in the United States. Much of those dollars go to treating chronic problems like obesity, hypertension and diabetes. It’s time we begin to invest these resources for prevention rather than treatment.
New test needed for boxing safety
Professional sports organizations are constantly searching for ways to improve the safety of competitions. Sports involving unarmed combat like boxing and mixed martial arts can face immense challenges since the ultimate goal is to neurologically impair an opponent in the form of a knock-out.
The pre-fight evaluation is crucial in avoiding permanent neurologic injury and death. Each state and all sovereign tribal nations that allow these sports have their own boxing commissions.
Connecticut has three commissions: The Connecticut State Boxing Commission, the Mohegan Tribal Department of Athletic Regulation and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Boxing Commission. Connecticut is among the most heavily regulated states in terms of safety.
Electroencephalography (EEG) is a diagnostic test where wires are taped to the skull and electrical impulses generated by the brain are recorded. Normal brain cells (neurons) produce patterns of rhythmic discharges. Variations in these rhythms are indicative of different types of brain abnormality.
EEGs were routinely used as a screening test in many states to determine whether a boxer could participate in an event. After several years, a review of 98 EEGs, performed on 86 boxers, who had participated in a total of 5,809 fights showed no significant abnormality. No fighter was prohibited from boxing based on the EEG.
These results demonstrated that EEG is not an appropriate test to assess chronic brain injury. This information will be presented next week at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Neurology (AAN).
The AAN represents over 21,000 neurologists. The information accumulated in Connecticut may help in evaluating patients with traumatic brain injury including returning service personnel.
Most importantly, the boxing commissions in Connecticut changed and are now requiring annual neurologic history and examination before boxing events.
“Boxing commissioners must be willing to change regulations in order to keep unarmed combatants safe,” said Peter Timothy. commissioner for the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Athletic Commission.
The ability for sports organizations to institute changes despite time-honored traditions is crucial to maintaining a safe contest for participants.
The pre-fight evaluation is crucial in avoiding permanent neurologic injury and death. Each state and all sovereign tribal nations that allow these sports have their own boxing commissions.
Connecticut has three commissions: The Connecticut State Boxing Commission, the Mohegan Tribal Department of Athletic Regulation and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Boxing Commission. Connecticut is among the most heavily regulated states in terms of safety.
Electroencephalography (EEG) is a diagnostic test where wires are taped to the skull and electrical impulses generated by the brain are recorded. Normal brain cells (neurons) produce patterns of rhythmic discharges. Variations in these rhythms are indicative of different types of brain abnormality.
EEGs were routinely used as a screening test in many states to determine whether a boxer could participate in an event. After several years, a review of 98 EEGs, performed on 86 boxers, who had participated in a total of 5,809 fights showed no significant abnormality. No fighter was prohibited from boxing based on the EEG.
These results demonstrated that EEG is not an appropriate test to assess chronic brain injury. This information will be presented next week at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Neurology (AAN).
The AAN represents over 21,000 neurologists. The information accumulated in Connecticut may help in evaluating patients with traumatic brain injury including returning service personnel.
Most importantly, the boxing commissions in Connecticut changed and are now requiring annual neurologic history and examination before boxing events.
“Boxing commissioners must be willing to change regulations in order to keep unarmed combatants safe,” said Peter Timothy. commissioner for the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Athletic Commission.
The ability for sports organizations to institute changes despite time-honored traditions is crucial to maintaining a safe contest for participants.
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