Welsh International Diagnosed With Epilepsy After Head Traumas

Wales and Worcester Warriors rugby star Jonathan Thomas has retired from the game on medical advice after being diagnosed with epilepsy which is thought to have developed following multiple head traumas.

The 32-year-old forward, who won 67 caps for Wales, said he had done everything he could to keep playing but added that there “comes a point when you realise you need to listen to medical experts”.

Thomas was diagnosed with epilepsy last season and he outlined in a statement that it is believed to have been caused by traumas and also led to “a degree of brain injury”.

He added: “At the elite level of the game I think the unions and medical departments of clubs do a great job and have a great understanding but I still think it's the players who need more educating about the warning signs and getting out of that 'digging in' mentality.”

Specialist lawyers at Irwin Mitchell specialise in helping those left with life-changing injuries as a result of sport-related incidents to get access to vital support to aid their rehabilitation.

Expert Opinion

“While it is an incredible shame to see an international star forced to retire due to injury, it should be welcomed that the right decision has been made following proper consultation with medical experts. <br/> <br/>“There is a greater understanding which is developing regarding the seriousness of concussion and head injury in sport, with a good example of this being the announcement that Hawk-Eye technology is being used to assess injuries at the upcoming Rugby World Cup. <br/> <br/>“However, as Jonathan points out, there remains much more that needs to be done to educate players and clubs regarding the issue, as well as determining the risks of head trauma. <br/> <br/>“There is plenty of work to do in this area, but hopefully the changing attitudes on this issue will lead to further improvements in safety.” Stephen Nye - Partner