After a break of several weeks, Dave returns with the Inside Athletics podcast. Dave’s special guest is Mike Downey, Head Athletic Trainer as they discuss the issue of concussions. This is part one of a two part series looking at an issue that seems to have “exploded” in the past several years on all levels of sports, including the professional level. The potential for an “accumulation effect” with concussions as evidenced by increased cases of dimentia among retired professional athletes has caused the medical community to pay closer attention to every blow to the head or body. Mike describes a concussion, talks about the baseline testing done on EMU athletes, how he goes about diagnosing a concussion and the early steps of treament. Part II will look at the relationship between the baseline testing and the treatment and recovery as well as some of the work done by local medical groups regarding education and prevention programs. Mike is serving on a task force that is working on programs for the local high schools and youth programs.

Inside Athletics is a weekly podcast hosted by Director of Athletics, Dave King. The podcast offers a synopsis of what is happening in EMU athletics, but also delves deeper into how athletics at EMU shapes lives and enhances college educations by positively impacting an athlete’s understanding of self, others, and God. Sports Information Director James De Boer is a regular guest with EMU coaches and athletes making appearances as well.