October 2005
When an athlete ‘bumps’ their head during a sport, when should they return to the field?
How many times have you heard an athlete mention that they had suffered a little “ding”, meaning a head injury? Depending on how much of a little “ding” it really was, it may have resulted in a concussion or Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (MTBI). Unfortunately, there is not an easy means of knowing exactly how significant that trauma may have been. Here are a few facts about concussions:
- A concussion is a brain injury.
- All concussions are serious.
- Concussions can occur without loss of consciousness.
- Concussions can occur in any sport.
Recognition and proper management of concussions when they first occur can help prevent further injury or even death.
A major concern is preventing second impact syndrome which occurs when an athlete returns to play prior to complete resolution of a previous head injury. Thus, the second injury is superimposed on top of the first. This could precipitate a potentially life threatening situation. This is very easily preventable by simply ensuring that the athlete is evaluated for safe return by a qualified medical professional.
There really is no such thing as a minor head injury, especially if it is not treated properly. Play it safe! It is better to miss only one game rather then the entire season, or worse. More information regarding concussions can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control at
www.cdc.gov/ncip c/tbi/Coaches_Tool_Kit.htm
Kevin Cappel, PT
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