High-tech helmets, turf and tethers may be in NFL's near future

Dr. Matthew Matava Washington University OrthopedicsWASHINGTON • Helmets with stronger concussion protection, and real-time impact sensors. Turf designed to lessen concussions from ground impact. Tethers from the helmet to the body to lessen pre-collision whiplash.

These are some of the future technological innovations laid out by NFL representatives and researchers at a briefing for Capitol Hill staffers Thursday.

During it, Dr. Matthew Matava, orthopedist, head team physician for the St. Louis Rams and head of sports medicine at Washington University, also described enhanced medical innovations that have been put in place or will soon be, including sideline doctor-and-trainer access to…