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CONCUSSION CARE

WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?

A concussion is considered a mild traumatic brain injury and should be taken seriously. Typically, concussions are induced by a blow to the head that causes the brain to move back and forth, causing pain, headaches, and other symptoms.

In sports and fitness, concussion risks are heightened by higher intensity levels. Over 10% of all contact sport participants sustain concussions yearly.

Surprisingly, over 50% of those concussions go unreported and undetected. Not only can concussions sideline you for the time being, they can be detrimental to your long-term health and well being if not treated and managed properly.

Click here to read more about concussions

How can a physical therapist help?

Physical therapists play a crucial role in helping athletes safely return to play.

PTs are specifically trained to address symptoms such as impaired balance, neck pain, difficulty focusing, dizziness, headaches, and exercise intolerance. Using a gradual rehab model, we can target these symptoms while preparing our athletes to return to sport.

Return to Sport Stages Established by the CISG (Concussion in Sports Group)

Stage 1

24-48 hours
after injury

Symptom-limited activity → this stage typically includes initiating vestibular rehab and reintroducing normal daily activities with minimal symptom exacerbation

Stage 2

Asymptomatic for 24 hours
after Stage 1

Light aerobic exercise → this includes light walking, stationary biking or other controlled activities that increase heart rate such as bodyweight exercise

Stage 3

Asymptomatic for 24 hours
after Stage 2

Sport-specific exercise → this includes running, skating or other sport-specific aerobic exercise avoiding head impact; more intense bodyweight exercise

Stage 4

Asymptomatic for 24 hours
after Stage 3

Non-contact training drills → sport-specific, non-contact training drills that involve increased coordination and thinking, in addition to progressive introduction of resistance training and plyometric/circuit training

Stage 5

Asymptomatic for 24 hours
after Stage 4

Full-contact practice → assessment of psychological readiness and exit testing; return to normal training activities

Stage 6

Asymptomatic for 24 hours
after Stage 5

Return to Sport → full return to sport as long as athlete remains asymptomatic

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