HEADS UP

Concussion in Youth Sports

A traumatic brain injury which results in a temporary disruption of normal brain function

Occurs when the brain is violently rocked back and forth or twisted inside the skull as a result of a blow to the head or body

Dazed, stunned or confused Answers questions slowly Moves clumsily Behavior or personality changes Memory loss Loss of consciousness (less than 10%)

Headache Nausea Balance problems Dizziness Double or fuzzy vision Feeling sluggish or groggy Concentration or memory problems Confusion

The athlete should be removed from play The athlete must be evaluated by a health

care professional (Physician, Physician Assistant, Osteopath, Athletic Trainer licensed by the VA Board of Medicine, Neuropsychologist licensed by the Board of Psychology, or a Nurse Practitioner licensed by the VA State Board of Nursing

Parent or guardian will be informed by the ATC or coach

If a possible concussion occurs outside of sports, inform the athlete’s coach and ATC!

When an athlete needs immediate medical attention:Any loss of consciousnessDecreasing levels of consciousnessUnable to be awakenedBreathing irregularitySevere or worsening headachePersistent vomitingSeizures

Rest! Let teachers know at school-academics can

be affected Get plenty of sleep Limit brain stimulation (computer, video

games, texting, television

***No athlete should return to contact competitive sports until they are symptom free, both at rest and with exercise, and have normal neurocognitive testing.

Athletes sustaining a concussion will not be allowed to return to play until:Cleared by a health care professionalAll Symptoms are resolved with rest and exercise

Most athletes recover in 1-2 weeks Up to 10% of athletes have prolonged symptoms including

headache, difficulty concentrating, poor memory and sleep problems

If return before healed athletes are at risk for:

Repeat concussion

Slower recovery

Increased long term problems

Severe swelling in the brain that can cause

death

Knowing and understanding signs/symptoms of a concussion through education

Early reporting of possible concussion to coach, parent, and/or athletic trainer

Practicing proper technique and form of sports specific skills needed in the specific sport

Practicing good sportsmanship Wear proper equipment

Helmets properly fitted

Mouth guards properly worn and fitted

Baseline Testing-IMPACT Test

computerized test used to assist in

evaluation and treatment of head injuries;

given to all athletes participating in

contact sports before the start of their

season

No athlete can begin practice until test is performed!

If they sustain a suspected concussion,

an athlete can re-take the test and the

data can be shared with your physician

to help in return to play decision making.If head injury is suspected:

If ATC is present they will complete the

Sideline Assessment Form to be given

to the parent

The Sideline Assessment Form can be

used as information for the ER or

physician.

Athlete will take the IMPACT test and share

results with their physician.

The athlete will follow up with their physician

to determine the return to play and the physician

will complete the Follow Up Physician Form.

Return all paperwork to ATC and follow up as

needed.

If an athlete is experiencing any signs or symptoms of a concussion, inform the coach or ATC!

Athletes cannot return to play without being cleared by a health care professional and being symptom free.

QUESTIONS?www.cdc.gov/concussioninyouthsports

www.nfhs.org