Playing contact sports is often associated with the development of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a brain disorder caused by repeated head injuries. A recent study revealed that athletes who developed CTE from contact sports have a high risk of developing Parkinsonism, a movement disorder similar to Parkinson’s disease. Parkinsonism is characterized by symptoms such as balance issues, stiffness in the arms or legs, and slow movement. The study found that individuals with more severe CTE were more likely to develop Parkinsonism, with 24.7% of people with CTE also having Parkinsonism.
The study, published in JAMA Neurology, examined the brains of 481 donors post-mortem, with 119 individuals found to have Parkinsonism. The findings suggest that for every eight years of participating in contact sports, there is a 50% increase in the risk of further damage to the area of the brain controlling movement. Various forms of Parkinsonism, including Parkinson’s disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, and progressive supranuclear palsy, can develop from contact sports-related CTE. The progression of Parkinsonism can vary significantly among individuals, with symptoms typically starting subtly and worsening over time.
CTE develops as a result of repeated head impacts, which can cause nerve fibers in the brainstem to be stretched and damaged. The cumulative effect of these impacts, particularly in sports like American football, boxing, soccer, ice hockey, and rugby, increases the risk of developing CTE. Diagnosis of CTE is challenging as it can only be confirmed through an examination of the brain after death. Warning signs of CTE include cognitive impairment, mood and behavioral changes, early signs of motor dysfunction, and issues with sleep.
Research suggests that the highest magnitude head acceleration events drive CTE risk more than repetitive smaller impacts. Rotational acceleration is said to contribute more to CTE risk than linear acceleration, with cumulative load correlating with CTE outcomes. It is important for individuals experiencing symptoms of CTE to seek help from experts for diagnosis and management. The study’s findings highlight the importance of understanding the risks associated with playing contact sports and the potential long-term effects on brain health.
