Sidney Crosby to Resume Skating — Again
Hockey's marquee star is returning to the ice--this time to begin skating on his own. After experiencing concussion symptoms while playing for the Pittsburgh Penguins on December 5th, Sidney Crosby has been sidelined for medical reasons. Crosby suffered a concussion in January 2011 after experiencing two blindside hits to the head in quick succession, one by David Steckel, and one by Victor Hedman. Crosby, 24, missed the duration of the 2010-2011 season.
Much speculation about Crosby's health has led to ongoing rumors about his return to the Penguins. The medical professionals overseeing Crosby's rehabilitation have been extremely cautious, eager to preserve the health of hockey's foremost talent. Sid the Kid returned to the ice on November 21st, posting 12 points in eight games before once again suffering concussion-like symptoms on December 5th in Boston. He has since missed the Penguins last 14 games, and the injury-riddled team has nosedived to eighth place in NHL's Eastern Conference.
People in the hockey world are chomping at the bit to get Sidney Crosby back on the ice. He is probably the NHL's most recognizable face, and his presence means money and ratings for the sport. However, with the recent spate of head injuries in professional sports, medical professionals are giving more attention to the consequences of concussions, and how best to treat them.
The Penguins general manager, Ray Shero, has said that Sidney Crosby has joined the team for the most recent road trip, and he will resume a light skating regimen after the team's on-ice practice on Friday. Up to this point, Crosby has been doing light exercise in the weight room, and on the exercise bike. Friday will be the first time that he has hit the ice since experiencing the concussion symptoms in Boston last December.
Team officials emphasize that Sidney is eager to return to the game. According to Shero, "He's frustrated. As captain you want to help your team in best of times, let alone a tough streak. He feels that responsibility. When he’s cleared to play he’ll play. We can’t wait to have him back.”
Image courtesy of Greg Hounslow
Follow Technorati