22/06/2021
The Show Must Go On
In this long overdue article, I will be discussing the AFL, its treatment of its players, my thoughts and experiences in treating athletes, both past and present, at the highest level.
The AFL Queen’s Birthday weekend split round 12 marks the halfway point of the home and away season. The AFL, being a results-driven industry, means more pressure on clubs, officials and players to cement a spot in the final eight.
This weekend, I will no doubt witness yet another player limping off the ground and down the race, only to return to the interchange bench spritely and ready for action. This happened six weeks ago to a 19-year-old Port Adelaide player. I couldn’t help but think he has a long season and career in front of him and that cortisone injection may in the long term, not be in his best interests. Before you throw in your “doctors know best” argument in the Comments section, the following are the long term effects of cortisone injection (from the Mayo Clinic):
• Cartilage damage
• Death of nearby bone
• Joint infection
• Nerve damage
Case Study 1
In an early round match, a highly respected player received an injury which was later found to be as serious neck condition. For the remainder of the season he was injected weekly with a pain killer. At the end of the season, an operation was performed to put a cage (supporting structure) in his neck. Honestly, where is the duty of care here? This type of treatment wouldn’t happen in any other workplace!
Case Study 2
I had the pleasure to treat a local footballer who is now playing college grid iron in the USA as a punter. He told me of his concerns for his former team mates (who were on the verge of being drafted in the NFL) and how they have resorted to using ma*****na to deal with the pain and trauma associated with injuries. This reminded me of the movie “Concussion” with Will Smith where injuries were ignored rather than being treated. Although this movie was no Shawshank Redemption, it was thought provoking nonetheless. No wonder the AFL is concerned.
Case 3
A Brownlow medallist from the ‘80’s who can’t lift his arm higher than his shoulder. Charlie ain’t a lot of use if he can’t lift his grandchildren up!
Case 4
A recently retired young footballer who suffered 12 concussions, is barely able to run more than a few kilometres.
While it appears I am the voice of doom and gloom, the AFL does a fantastic job but the landscape has changed. With these changes the AFL has its challenges as every club strives to gain an advantage.
There are interesting times ahead.
