In response to concussions in sports, WWE has implemented their ImPACT Concussion Management Program. According to a document released on the corporate WWE website, an ImPACT test measures the effects of a concussion through cognitive tests. The results are evaluated by Dr. Mark Lovell, neuropsychologist and director of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Sports Medicine Concussion Program.
WWE has administered baseline ImPACT tests and will repeat the baseline tests to talent annually. They are mandatory for all prospective talent during pre-contract screening.
If a WWE Talent shows symptoms of a concussion or has suffered a concussion, they will not be cleared to return until they pass an ImPACT est and is cleared clinically by a certified physician.
As a preventative measure, WWE has eliminated using folding metal chairs to "strike" an opponent in the head. WWE will now penalize the intentional use of a folding metal chair to "strike" an opponent in the head or any blow to the head that is deemed an INTENTIONAL act. Violators will receive a Fine and/or Suspension directed by the EVP of Talent Relations (John Laurinaitis).
For more, click here for full details on the corporate WWE website.
Richard Reacts: I can already hear people groaning - first you took our blood, now our chair shots. This is absolutely a necessary move and is several years too late. Concussions are a serious problem in all sports and professional wrestling is not exempt. Look at what Christopher Nowinski's group discovered about Chris Benoit's brain (severally damaged from multiple concussions) - results WWE chose to ignore. I am all for WWE taking measures to protect their talent and think this is a must. I'm sorry it took this long but glad to see it implemented. I hope it is strongly enforced.
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