Avoid concussions, play safe

A concussion is a result of trauma to the brain. It might be from direct impact to the head, such as a stick, or the result of force caused by an immediate jolt, like a hit. It can also be caused by an impact to the jaw area. The symptoms vary depending on the seriousness of the concussion.

• A Grade 1 concussion involves some confusion and brief mental status abnormalities, but no loss of consciousness.
• Grade 2 involves longer periods of mental status abnormalities (lasting longer than 15 minutes), headache and nausea, but still no loss of consciousness.
• A Grade 3 concussion is the worst kind. Symptoms can include brief or prolonged periods of unconsciousness, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision and confusion.

No matter how you look at it, the best thing to do is to avoid concussion in the first place. The best way to avoid a concussion in hockey is with the right protective equipment.

Contrary to popular belief, helmets don't stop concussions from happening.

"Helmets help reduce impact to your head, which can cause concussions," says Jamie Watson, Itech Product Manager. "The force of your head moving then stopping quickly can also cause concussions. Helmets do not prevent this type of injury."

But if you're moving along the boards with your head down and someone crushes you into the glass, a helmet will leave you better off than if you didn't wear one.

No helmet is concussion-proof. If you charge head first into the boards, you're going to get hurt. For best results, keep your head up and play smart hockey.

Be sure you wear a helmet that fits properly. The helmet should sit one finger width above the eyebrow. A helmet that's too big and sits below the eyebrow will impede vision. Plus, when you add a visor or a facemask, the helmet will have a tendency to slide down if it doesn't fit properly. 

A helmet that sits too far above the eyebrows won't protect your head in the case of a fall. It may also be uncomfortable and put excessive pressure on your temples.

Adjusting the helmet usually means you will get a snug fit from front to back.

However, getting the helmet to fit on the sides is a little more difficult. You can usually make some small adjustments with the plugs that come with the helmets. We recommend you try on different helmets to find one that matches the shape and size of your head the best. That way all you have to do is fine-tune the helmet.

Not only do mouth guards prevent costly trips to the dentist, they also act as a great defense against impacts causing concussions. In hockey, you're always in danger of taking hits to the jaw. The shock goes up through your teeth into your skull, rattling your brain. Doesn't sound like much fun.
A well-fitting mouth guard absorbs the shock and prevents it from reaching your skull. We carry a great assortment of mouth guards for adults and kids. Most of them can be custom fitted to your teeth. All you do is boil them in hot water, put them in your mouth and, presto, mouth and concussion protection. Most mouth guards have straps that conveniently attach to your facemask.

But, whether it's a mouth guard or a helmet, you need to understand the risks of playing this extremely faced-paced and exciting game.

Just be prepared for the contact, and you can enjoy a lifetime of hockey. It's in your reach to play any sport safely and enjoyably.