Returning Properly From a Concussion

A concussion is a brain injury that many athletes suffer while playing their sport. They are sustained by a blow to the head, being struck in the head by an object or by a fall in which the head strikes the ground.

Concussions vary in severity, but symptoms include:

• Headaches

• Dizziness

• Nausea/vomiting

• Sensitivity to light and noise

• Balance problems

• Issues with concentration/memory

• Irritability/mood swings

• Irregular sleep habits

After suffering any head injury, athletes should be aware of these symptoms and report them to a coach or medical professional such as an Athletic Trainer, Physical Therapist or Doctor.

In my experience, many athletes fail to report symptoms or do not have the resources available to assist them in the aftermath of a concussion.

If this is the case, athletes must take some initiative to protect themselves as suffering multiple concussions in close proximity to each other can be very bad for the brain.

In this instance, here is a guide for athletes to protect themselves and return to sport safely. That being said, make it a priority to use caution and consult a healthcare provider to assist in your return to sport.

• The athlete must be symptom-free before starting physical activity.

  • To progress, limit screen time and and tasks that require intense focus

  • Skipping school and social activities is a wise choice

  • This period can last up to several days - be patient!

• Stage 1: Light aerobic activity

  • Aim for 15-20 min walking on a treadmill or a casual exercise bike ride

  • Do not progress past this stage until it is completed without symptoms

• Stage 2: Resistance training

  • A low intensity lower body lift can be attempted after passing stage one

  • If symptom free, a low intensity upper body lift can be attempted the next day

  • If symptom free, intensity can be increased with resistance training

• Stage 3: Sport-specific drills in the gym

  • Sprinting, cutting, and jumping can be performed in a controlled gym setting

• Stage 4: Non-contact practice

• Stage 5: Full contact practice

  • Get medical clearance for this

• Stage 6: Return to competition

Notes:

• Do not skip stages

• Do not advance more than one stage per day

• If you experience symptoms, regress to the previous stage and re-pass it

• If you return to play with symptoms, suffering another concussion can lead to more intense symptoms and can be extremely dangerous especially to younger athletes.

• Be patient and heed your symptoms. Seek medical help if you suffer a concussion and have a plan to return gradually.