From left to right: Fred Horton, Ashley Williamson, Chris Grijalba, D.O., John Lax, M.D.The University of Alabama at Birmingham Sports and Exercise Medicine has donated 800 Guardian Caps to the Birmingham Youth Sports League to decrease the risk of traumatic brain injuries and concussions.
The caps will be distributed among the players, so these young athletes will now have an extra layer of protection as they take the field in the league’s inaugural football season.
This donation from UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine highlights the dedication to offering superior sports medicine and care and illustrates the prioritization of injury prevention and safety.
“At UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine, our commitment goes beyond the clinic — we’re proud to invest in the safety and future of Birmingham’s youth,” said Fred Horton, executive administrator for the UAB Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. “By donating Guardian Caps, we’re helping prevent concussions, alongside reinforcing our mission to provide comprehensive orthopaedic and sports medicine care while educating and protecting the community we serve.”
The doctors and clinicians with UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine consistently seek to improve the lives of athletes and the everyday person, specializing in personalized injury prevention programs and treatment options for individuals in need of rehabilitation for physical problems.
Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury that occur when a sudden impact causes the brain to shift internally, damaging cells and disrupting brain function. Youth sports, especially football, can make children susceptible to these injuries. Click here to read more about concussions in student-athletes.
“When in doubt, hold them out,” said John Lax, M.D., assistant professor in the UAB Department of Family and Community Medicine and provider with UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine. “One of the biggest risks associated with concussions is ignoring symptoms and allowing kids to go back to play fast.”
UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine is committed to supporting coaches and parents in the mission of keeping the kids safe and healthy.