In Philly For Lacrosse Convention, Company Shines Light on Brain Injuries
By Lynne Adkins
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- More than 7,000 lacrosse enthusiasts from around the country are in Philadelphia this weekend for a national convention.
One new item they'll learn about is designed to signal a bad hit to the head.
The Brain Sentry Impact Sensor is stuck on the back of a lacrosse helmet and lights up when the player has received a serious blow to the head.
Greg Merril, the company CEO, says players can just stick it on and forget about it.
"When the player experiences a really rapid acceleration to the head, the sensor will light up a bright red LED light," he explains. "It can be seen from at least 30 yards away, and certainly within a play or two everyone will know that player has a red light."
The player can then be taken off the field for medical attention.
Merril says the device, which retails for about $65, helps professional and volunteer coaches spot a potential concussion easily.