A concussion is a TBI (traumatic brain injury) and it's usually caused by a bump or a jolt. A concussion is the shakening of the brain. Falls are the most common cause of a concussion. Concussions can be not serious but they also can be life threatening. Some football players have died from these including ( Ken Stabler, Tyler Sash, Frank Gifford, Mike Webster, Dave Duerson, Chris Henry, Justin Strzelczyk)
What is the concussion protocol for sports?
A concussion protocol is a set of steps that an athlete must complete and go through in order to be cleared back to full participation in that sport, after they were diagnosed with a concussion injury. The specific protocol may be different depending on the sport and organization, however they all are very similar. The athlete is taken through a handful of steps in progression, and must complete the activities in each step with no onset of symptoms within 24 hours of completion of that activity in order to move on to the next step of the protocol. If the athlete has any onset of symptoms during their course through the concussion protocol, they are not allowed to move on to the next step. A typical concussion protocol progression is as follows: -Return to normal daily activities such as school -Light exercise such as prolonged walking or riding a stationary bike -Higher paced activity, such as running and jogging - Non-contact sport specific activities including resistance and weight training -Full participation in a full contact practice and normal sport activities -Cleared by a medical provider to fully return to play Following the set concussion protocol is very important in making sure the athlete is safe and ready to return to playing. It is important not to rush this return, as an athlete that returns to playing too soon following a concussion, is more likely to experience serious and even possibly permanent injuries or damage to their brain that can be detrimental. |
From the expert, Austin Troendle PT, DPT, ATC, LAT
How can athletes prevent concussions while playing sports? Although concussions unfortunately are not 100% preventable, there are certain steps athletes can take to lower their risk of getting a concussion. These consists of things such as: wearing and using any protective equipment required by the given sport properly (helmets, pads, mouth guards, etc. ), using safe and appropriate techniques when participating in the sport (such as using proper tackling form), and following the rules set by the sport. Another thing athletes can do to lower their risk of getting a concussion is strengthen their neck musculature. This will allow the athlete to better withstand high velocity hits/blows in the head and neck region and may result in less jarring of the brain, making these hits less likely to result in a concussion. The best thing athletes can do while playing sports to prevent concussions is telling their coach, athletic trainer, or doctor when they do get hit in the head during a practice or game. This will allow the athlete to be assessed for a possible concussion and allow for appropriate precautions and preventative measures to be taken to better protect the athlete. For more information click below:
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