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Concussion Awareness and Management

Concussion – Signs and symptoms 

WHEN IN DOUBT – SIT THEM OUT

- Confusion and Disorientation

- Double Vision or Fuzzy Vision

- Loss of Consciousness

- Ringing in the Ears

- Headache Slow or Slurred Speech

- Dizziness Seeing “Stars”

- Nausea and Vomiting

- Feeling Stunned or Dazed

- Loss of Balance

- Emotional or Personality Changes

The player should not be left alone, regular monitoring for deterioration is essential. The player should be medically evaluated.

Concussion: Management and Rehabilitation

When a player shows ANY SYMPTOMS or SIGNS of a concussion

X The player should not be allowed to return to play in the current game or practice.

X The player should not be left alone, regular monitoring for deterioration is essential.

Concussion: Guidelines for Coaches, Players, Parents, and Officials

- Concussion is a Brain Injury

- You do not have to lose consciousness to have a concussion

- Symptoms are often subtle

- Wear properly fitted protective equipment

- The head (helmet/facemask) should never be used to make initial contact with another player

- A concussion may be caused by a direct blow to the head, face, neck, or anywhere else that causes a severe and sudden movement to the head/neck

- Medical Clearance by an appropriate regulated health professional is mandatory before return to play

Concussion: Follow these 6 steps before returning to play

Concussion Management should adhere to the following 6 steps:

1. No activity, complete rest. Once asymptomatic, proceed to step two

2. Light aerobic exercise such as walking or stationary cycling

3. Sport-specific training. (e.g. running in football, skating in hockey)

4. Non-contact training drills