Concussions are a growing concern in sports, with many athletes suffering long-term effects. Philippe Sella, a rugby legend, experienced this firsthand. He had a blackout during his first international match against Romania in 1982 and continued playing after a quick check-up. The incident left him with memory loss that lasted a lifetime.
Sella’s experience wasn’t unique. Other athletes, like Sébastien Chabal, have also struggled with concussion-related issues. Chabal revealed he doesn’t remember any of his 62 international matches. Raphael Varane, a former French soccer player, spoke out about how head injuries affected his game. Cleopatre Darleux, a French handball player, retired after repeated concussions.
Rugby has been at the forefront of concussion protocols. Players are now required to wait 15 days to three weeks before returning to the game after a concussion. In contrast, soccer players can return in just six days. The difference in protocols has sparked debate about player safety.
A French startup, Regenlife, is working on a non-invasive device to help reduce concussion symptoms. The device uses light stimulation to modulate inflammation in the brain. Sella is part of a group testing the device, and he’s reported feeling better. The company is conducting trials in three French hospitals and expects European certification by the end of the year.
Understanding Concussions
Concussions can be acute or chronic. Acute concussions occur after a head injury, causing neurological problems. Chronic concussions result from repeated head trauma, leading to long-term issues like memory loss, depression, and even degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s.
Dr. Patrice Cristofini, CEO of Regenlife, explains that concussions can cause micro-lesions and inflammation in the brain. While some concussions may not show up on an MRI, they can still have significant effects on athletes. The recommended treatment is usually rest and anti-inflammatory medication.
Prevention and Treatment
Rugby has implemented strict concussion protocols, including a 10-minute decision-making process during games. Soccer has also adopted concussion substitution protocols, with decisions made within three minutes. However, some athletes resist being substituted out, as they want to continue playing.
Regenlife’s device aims to reduce concussion symptoms and potentially prevent long-term damage. The company believes that light stimulation can help modulate inflammation in the brain and promote recovery. Other athletes, like Zazie Gardeau, a French equestrian, have used the device as part of their rehabilitation.
Gardeau suffered a severe head injury while horse riding, leaving her in a coma and paralyzed on one side. She used Regenlife’s device and showed significant improvement in her speech, balance, and memory. Her story highlights the potential benefits of innovative treatments for concussion-related issues.