Law enforcement officers face high risks of concussions and brain injuries, often unreported and untreated. This episode explores how these injuries impact their performance, health and recovery.
Jaclyn Caccese, PhD, is an assistant professor at Ohio State. Her research focuses on traumatic brain injuries in athletes. Now she investigates head impacts in law enforcement cadets.
“A concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head or force to the body. Symptoms vary, and if untreated, concussions can result in prolonged recovery and performance deficits.”
“Law enforcement faces the same lack of awareness and access to care as athletes. Our research surveys officers' histories, targeting work-related and previous injuries.”
Josh Walters, a Franklin County Sheriff's deputy, leads a peer support team and partners with Caccese and the Chronic Brain Institute Program at Ohio State to improve deputy health.
“The biggest reason most law enforcement don’t report injuries is the fear of losing their job," he says. "We need to focus more on recognizing and treating these hidden injuries."
Ohio State and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office offer resources like a dry float pool for concussion recovery. Walters says there is need for more care, as concussions impact mental health.