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On-field cervical spine evaluations are an area of expertise for Dr. Mark Prasarn. He is the spine consultant for the Houston Texans and all University of Houston sports teams.
What is the initial on-field assessment look like
ABCs
When do we transport?
Anyone that is unconscious
Significant neck pain
Weakness or numbness
Bilateral is a much greater indicator.
What does it look like once we transport it?
This really depends on the group, but equipment removal
Then get them stabilized
What are our early-stage rehab focus and goals?
If there is an AT it is a huge benefit
ROM
Transient hemioplegic patient
This can be mistaken for strokes
Neck pain is the significant indicator
Education is important
Most cases resolve in a few seconds or few minutes when it is a stinger
If it does not resolve then have them evaluated
Refer for imaging per doctor's orders.
What conversations should ATs be having with local staff?
Where are they going?
You should be involved in the decision-making.
What can we do to prevent these cervical spine injuries?
There is not really much we can do to train away injuries. Strengthening is most likely going to help
Do we need acclimatization for tackling?
Data shows that tackling technique improves injury rates
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Contact Us:
Jeremy Jackson
Shawn Ready – shawnreadyatc@gmail.com
Dr. Mark Knoblauch – maknobla@Central.UH.EDU
Dr. Layci Harrison – lharris5@Central.UH.EDU
Bob Marley – Bob.Marley@uth.tmc.edu
ATCornerPodcast – ATCornerds@gmail.com
Joseph Eberhardt – eberhardtj@pearlandisd.org
Christina Fry – fryc@pearlandisd.org
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Frio Hydration – Superior Hydration products.
Donate and get some swag (like Patreon but for the school)
HOIST – No matter your reason for dehydration DRINK HOIST
MedBridge Education – Use “TheSMB” to save some, be entered in a drawing for a second year free, and support the podcast.
Marc Pro – Use “THESMB” to recover better.