Kinetic energy is best defined as “the energy possessed by a
body because of its motion.” This
physical principle provides a basis for the excitement and attraction of
high-velocity collision sports.
Unfortunately, it may also be the basis for their downfall.
It is no secret that athletes have become larger, stronger
and faster over the past decade.
Attending a high school or youth sporting event will provide sufficient
proof.
The human body is an efficient and durable machine but the
question of whether it can withstand the kinetic forces it is currently
subjected to in sports is now in question. This issue has particular importance regarding the bony
vertebrae that protect the spinal cord.
Last week alone, two high-profile football players sustained
significant spinal injuries. Devon Walker, a defensive back for Tulane University, suffered an awkward
head-to-head collision while tackling an opponent. This resulted in a fracture
of the spinal vertebrae just below the skull in an area known as the cervical
spine.
Roger Saffold, a tackle for the St. Louis Rams, was also
involved in a head-to-head collision and had to be taken from the field on a
stretcher. Although no fracture
was reported in Saffold’s injury, there is concern regarding the potential for
further injury.
The spinal cord provides the main link for the nervous
system between the brain and the peripheral nerves. Those nerves provide
sensation and movement.
Head-to-head impacts result in the entire kinetic force of the collision
to be directed on the spine.
Similar to other forms of injury, an inflammatory response
is triggered and produces swelling and subsequent damage to the nerve
fibers. Unfortunately, this damage
is often permanent and results in paralysis of all extremities (quadriplegia)
or just the lower extremities (paraplegia). Aggressive treatment and surgery can often limit damage.
As kinetic forces increase, so does the apparent danger of
participation in football and similar sports. A solution to this dilemma is a necessity.
