Polamalu speaks on head injuries and his style of play

Polamalu speaks on head injuries and his style of play
Friday, December 02, 2011
By Gerry Dulac, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette


Pro Bowl safety Troy Polamalu said he is aware of the medical research involving concussions and understands his style of play could be responsible for his recent head injuries.

He also said he is probably under a lot more scrutiny than most because of his history of concussion-related injuries, including two in the past six games.

But he said he "absolutely" can't dwell on that when he is on the playing field and is doubtful he will change the aggressive and explosive style of play he exhibits in a game.

"I don't know if it's possible, at this point, to change a style of play," Polamalu said. "That's the case for anybody in the NFL, even regarding the rules and fines that we have [for illegal hits]. We're instinctual players at this point. Of course we're professional athletes, but it's still tough to change these habits we've formed since we were 8 years old."

Polamalu spoke today for the first time since he sustained what was termed "concussion-like symptoms" while making a tackle on the opening series in Kansas City. Polamalu was removed from the game and didn't return, but he said he felt fine right after making the tackle on Chiefs offensive tackle Steve Maneri and could have returned to the game.

Polamalu declined to say what type of symptoms he experienced, but team sources have told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette he was dizzy for about 30 seconds. Those sources said he was "lucid and clear" by halftime and could have returned to the game.



Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11336/1194132-100-0.stm?cmpid=steelers.xml#ixzz1fQARAuyj

Quote :

We're instinctual players at this point. Of course we're professional athletes, but it's still tough to change these habits we've formed since we were 8 years old."

I wonder if the Commissioner will read this and fine Polamalu for speaking out against the league.