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Does Playing Tackle Football Cause Brain Damage?

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Posted on Tue, 17 Nov 2015
Question: My son is 13 and plays little league tackle football. Can weights or too much excercise hinder his growth?
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Answered by Dr. Archana Verma (29 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Not a recommended game for children less than 14 years

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to the HCM

I understand your concerns. Children under age 14 are advised not to play tackle football, largely because both their brains and bodies are still developing and therefore more vulnerable to serious injury.

The brain concussions are quite common occurrence during this sport due to recurrent acceleration and deceleration injuries. Although all injuries are not clinical, even subtle injuries are found to be harmful in long term prognosis.

Apart from the above, exercise and weights won't harm his growth if he does it within limits of his body calibre. A good nutrition and plenty of fluids daily will be helpful.

Hopefully it will be of help.
Take care
Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Archana Verma

Pediatrician

Practicing since :2006

Answered : 1129 Questions

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Does Playing Tackle Football Cause Brain Damage?

Brief Answer: Not a recommended game for children less than 14 years Detailed Answer: Hi Welcome to the HCM I understand your concerns. Children under age 14 are advised not to play tackle football, largely because both their brains and bodies are still developing and therefore more vulnerable to serious injury. The brain concussions are quite common occurrence during this sport due to recurrent acceleration and deceleration injuries. Although all injuries are not clinical, even subtle injuries are found to be harmful in long term prognosis. Apart from the above, exercise and weights won't harm his growth if he does it within limits of his body calibre. A good nutrition and plenty of fluids daily will be helpful. Hopefully it will be of help. Take care