Ben Roethlisberger, head trauma and behavior

Guys night out - Whats the worst that could happen?

It’s somewhat ironic that I have written a previous article about concussions in sports, where I made reference to the NFL, and in particular, specific reference to the man featured in the topic of this article – Ben Roethlisberger. The irony lies in the fact that I made reference to him opting to sit out a game because of a concussion he suffered, which he was rebuked for by fellow Steeler Hines Ward. Him putting his health first was seen by many as a sensible move, but lately the health of his mental state from the several concussions he has received through the sport has been suggested as a reason for his recent boorish behavior.

According to neurologists this may not be too far fetched, although some parties are of the belief that this is merely a scapegoat to try and rationale his actions. Roethisberger apparently demonstrates behavior suggestive of frontal lobe brain damage. The frontal lobe is responsible for many functions including planning, mood, motivation and judgement. Damage to this part of the brain can affect the way you converse with people, and also how you read their responses.

Roethlisberger’s style of play is contact-heavy. He holds onto the ball longer than any other quarterback, he keeps his eyes downfield even when the pocket is collapsing and he likes to scramble. Some say this is what makes him such a great football player. Others say it makes him glutton for punishment – he has been sacked 242 times in his NFL career, which is going into its seventh year. Given that he has played in 87 games, that works out at nearly three sacks per game! There is also the small matter of a near-fatal motorcycle crash he had in 2006 which also gave him a concussion to go with the three he suffered on the field.

This appears to be something that medical staff are looking into, with Roethlisberger undergoing tests last weekend to see if there is any truth to the matter.