9/23/10: Laurali Noteman
Thursday, September 16, Dr. Ott kicked off the first presentation of Kane County Hospital Foundation’s (KCHF) Health Forums. This presentation, "Sport medicine for Parents - common sports injuries" was held in the KCH Clinic foyer.
Ott was assisted by P.A. student Johan Leeflang. Alternating between the two, the discussion covered prevention, concussions, return to play protocol, strains and sprains, shoulder, knee and ankle injuries, assessments and treatments. Questions and comments were encouraged.
Dr. Ott spent a considerable amount of time addressing concussions. The signs and symptoms, the standard grading system used to determine if the athlete is alright to return to play. He complimented our coaches and their cooperativeness with his diagnosis and recommendations when a player is hurt. "It’s not always an easy call, especially in the heat of the game," Ott relayed.
Fortunately for those present Ott went on and explained in detail about concussions. How they occur, what happens to the brain and what symptoms are associated with which grade level. One of KCHF board members put Dr. Ott’s training to the test. The following weekend she fell, hit her head and briefly lost consciousness. She had the what-with-all after the incident to be able to make an informed decision regarding her care. She was able apply what she had learned and faired quite well.
Ott and Leeflang demonstrated shoulder, knee and ankle injuries. Some of us in the audience related very well to their descriptions. We all groaned while the power point scrolled through with joints skewed at angles that just sent shivers through the crowd along with several nervous giggles.
Debbie Buck made the comment, "All of the coaches and parents with children in sports should hear this. Will you be running this presentation again?"
"I’d be glad to present this again," was Dr. Ott’s response.
A repeat forum regarding sports injuries is in the works. We have brochures and posters strategically placed throughout the community as well as in the SUN. Please check our schedules and mark your calendars for those forums in which you may have an interest. October 7, 7:00 PM Dr. D. Salter will be presenting "Are You at Risk for a Heart Attack?" in the KCH Clinic Foyer.
