Local doctor tackles concussion issue - WECT TV6-WECT.com:News, weather & sports Wilmington, NC

Let's face it, we love the big hits...in the NFL, and in college. But when it comes to our kids, we stop cheering, and we cringe.

Concussions are the hottest topic in sports.  According to the Center for Disease Control, as many as 3.8 million concussions will occur in youth sports this year.  So, what can we do?

Dr. Richard Figler, a sports health specialist at the Cleveland Clinic, says concussions aren't preventable, but believes better equipment may be able to make a difference.

That's where Dr. Steven Novicky comes in.  After years of treating patients with concussion symptoms, Novicky designed "shock strips" -- rubber strips that adhere to the exterior of football helmets. 

 The shock strips absorb much of the blow, and are now being used by 28 teams in 13 states, Western Reserve Blue Devils down in Berlin Center, Ohio.

The Ohio High School Athletic Association, however, does not endorse the shock strips, because they void the liability of the helmet maker. 

The OHSAA does allow them, though, so for now, it's the individual's choice.

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