We’re proud to serve as a national leader in research support to help eliminate the risk of serious injuries like commotio cordis.
The best way to reduce the risk of commotio cordis in lacrosse is with the use of chest protection equipment that meets NOCSAE performance standard ND200.
what is Commotio cordis?
Commotio cordis is a Latin term, meaning “agitation of the heart.” It’s a rare, but serious, medical condition that is caused by low-impact trauma to the chest, including by a projectile such as a lacrosse ball or baseball. This impact can cause the heart to change its normal rhythm and lead to sudden cardiac arrest. Immediate CPR and defibrillation is necessary to restore the heart rhythm.
See the Fact Sheet.
Understanding Commotio cordis
developing better protection
Beginning in 2021, USA Lacrosse boys’ and girls’ youth rules mandated that all goalie chest protectors must meet the new NOCSAE standard. It’s also mandatory in the NFHS boys’ and girls’ high school rules, and the NCAA men’s and women’s rules. Beginning in 2022, USA Lacrosse boys’ field players, NFHS boys’ field players, and NCAA men’s field players must also wear chest protection that meets the NOCSAE ND200 standard. Products are now available.
Get the FAQs on Chest Protection
the importance of AEDs and chest protection
Stryker is the official AED of USA Lacrosse and the U.S. National Teams
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Additional Resources
The Story Behind a Positive Commotio Cordis Outcome
Medical personnel revived Loyola Blakefield (Md.) high school lacrosse player Peter Laake after a commotio cordis episode, highlighting the need for AEDs on site and the importance of the new chest protector standard that USA Lacrosse played a major role in helping to develop.
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