A brain-injury treatment programme originally designed for military veterans injured on the battlefield has been updated to include professional athletes.
Representatives with the Eisenhower Center announced on December 16 that it will be the primary facility used by the NFL Players Association for treating brain injuries and other neurological issues through the ‘After the Impact’ programme.
The residential neuro-rehabilitation facility is based in Ann Arbor.
The programme provides intense treatment for soldiers and athletes recovering from concussions, mild traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder and other problems. It evolved from the Eisenhower Center’s transitional treatment programme to help military members deal with brain injuries.
The NFL last month urged a judge to approve an estimated $1 billion settlement of concussion lawsuits despite concerns raised by former players or survivors who felt left out. The 65-year fund would resolve thousands of lawsuits that accuse the NFL of hiding what it knew about concussions and brain injuries to keep players on the field. The issue is significant in hockey too. In October, a consolidated class-action lawsuit by former NHL players against the league over concussion-related injuries was filed in federal court.
