As a neuropsychologist working in the field of brain injuries, Kim Gorgens has seen firsthand the damage sports-related impacts can do. And as chair of the State of Colorado Traumatic Brain Injury Trust Fund Board and a member of the Brain Injury Legislative Collaborative, she’s working to shape the laws around youth sports injuries. Kim, an assistant clinical professor in the University of Denver Graduate School of Professional Psychology, also is the president-elect of the Colorado Neuropsychological Society and has an appointment to the American Psychological Association’s Council on Disability in Psychology.

Professional BMX dirt rider T.J. Lavin remains in a medically induced coma due to bleeding in his brain, but was able to move his hands earlier today. In a text message sent from Lavin's mother to Lavin's friend and Dew Tour BMX dirt course builder Tim "Fuzzy" Hall on Saturday morning, Lavin's mother said "Neuro came and spoke to T.J. He moved his hands around and he gave the docs a thumbs up. He is not conscious. He's back on sedation to rest and minimize brain swelling."

The 33-year-old Las Vegas native and host of MTV's "Real World/Road Rules Challenge" was injured Thursday evening at the Dew Tour Championships in Las Vegas, Nev. During dirt qualifying, Lavin failed to get his feet back on the pedals mid-air and was catapulted to his head. Lavin sustained an orbital fracture on his eye and a fractured right wrist. Contrary to earlier reports, Lavin did not suffer any broken ribs.

According to accounts from Lavin's business partner Chris Aday, the Dew Tour Championships was to be Lavin's last contest before retiring from the pro dirt circuit.

Reference:  ESPN Action Sports

Photography: Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images

I think we can all agree that your face and head pretty vital, which is why there are so many precautions in place to protect these areas while playing extreme sports. But what kind of face guards are available, and what types of sports should you wear them for? Here’s a quick guide to protective facial masks to help you know what to look for.

• Softball and Baseball Helmet/Mask Combo

This combination helmet/facial mask provides complete protection to softball and baseball players. It is also made of a patented bullet-proof material!

• Softball Defensive Facemask

 The Emask Facemask is shatter-proof, and protects all areas of the face from blows and blunt trauma. It also comes in a variety of bright colors.

• Baseball and Softball Game Face

 The Game Face mask protects against both facial and dental injuries, while also providing plenty of ventilation to increase comfortability.

• Mueller Nose Guard

 This nose guard is designed specifically for use in basketball, wrestling, karate, and other sports where helmets are not required.

• ProForce MA Lightning Clear Face Shield

This versatile face shield can be used for nearly any sport, and is designed to maximize breathing and air flow.

• Saddle Barn Face Mask

 This face mask is intended for use in barns, stables, corrals, or any other place where horses may be. It is designed to protect the cheek bones, chin, forehead, and temple regions.

No matter what type of face guard you are looking for, always remember to choose one that offers plenty of protection while also being comfortable enough to play your best in.