24 Jan Concussion Management for Young Athletes: How to Get Back in the Game Safely
Concussions are not merely minor head bumps; they are serious brain injuries that demand careful attention, especially in young athletes eager to return to their favourite sports. At MYo Lab Health & Wellness in Calgary, Alberta, we recognize the complexities involved in managing concussions among children and teens. This comprehensive guide offers essential tips and strategies to ensure a safe and gradual return to sports, helping young athletes resume their activities without compromising their long-term health.
Understanding Concussions in Young Athletes
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury resulting from a blow to the head or a forceful impact on the body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. This sudden movement can create chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretch and damage brain cells.
Why Young Athletes Are at Higher Risk
- Developing Brains: Children’s brains are still developing, making them more susceptible to the effects of trauma.
- Lack of Awareness: Young athletes may not recognize or report symptoms, fearing they will be removed from play.
- Higher Activity Levels: The energetic nature of children and teens increases the likelihood of accidents.
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms
Identifying a concussion early is crucial for effective management. Symptoms can manifest immediately or may be delayed for hours or days.
Physical Symptoms
- Headache or feeling of pressure in the head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Double or blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Feeling sluggish, foggy, or groggy
Cognitive Symptoms
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Confusion or appearing dazed
- Answering questions slowly
- Repeating questions
Emotional Symptoms
- Irritability
- Sadness
- Increased emotions
- Nervousness or anxiety
Sleep Disturbances
- Drowsiness
- Sleeping more or less than usual
- Trouble falling asleep
If a young athlete exhibits any of these symptoms following a head injury, it’s imperative to remove them from play and seek professional medical evaluation immediately.
Immediate Actions Following a Suspected Concussion
- Remove the Athlete from Play: Do not allow the athlete to return to the game or practice.
- Seek Professional Medical Evaluation: Visit a healthcare professional experienced in concussion management.
- Inform Coaches and School Officials: Ensure all relevant parties are aware to provide appropriate support.
- Rest is Crucial: Both physical and cognitive rest are essential during the initial recovery phase.
- Monitor for Worsening Symptoms: Keep a vigilant eye for any signs of deterioration, such as increased confusion, repeated vomiting, or seizures.
Comprehensive Assessment at MYo Lab Health & Wellness
At MYo Lab Health & Wellness, we provide specialized concussion assessments tailored to the needs of young athletes. Our multidisciplinary team includes chiropractors, physiotherapists, and massage therapists who collaborate to deliver a holistic evaluation and create an individualized care plan.
What Our Assessment Includes
- Medical History Review: Understanding previous injuries and health status.
- Symptom Evaluation: Detailed analysis of current symptoms.
- Physical Examination: Assessing neurological function, balance, and coordination.
- Cognitive Testing: Evaluating memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills.
The Graduated Return-to-Play Protocol
A structured, step-by-step approach is essential to ensure the athlete’s safe return to sports after a concussion. Rushing this process can lead to prolonged recovery or even severe complications like Second Impact Syndrome.
Step 1: Symptom-Limited Activity
- Objective: Allow the brain to heal.
- Activities: Gentle daily tasks that do not provoke symptoms.
- Guidance: Minimal physical exertion; focus on rest.
Step 2: Light Aerobic Exercise
- Objective: Increase heart rate without strain.
- Activities: Walking, light jogging, or stationary cycling at low intensity.
- Guidance: Monitor for symptom recurrence.
Step 3: Sport-Specific Exercise
- Objective: Add movement specific to the sport.
- Activities: Running drills, skating drills; no activities with head impact risk.
- Guidance: Gradually reintroduce sport motions.
Step 4: Non-Contact Training Drills
- Objective: Increase exercise, coordination, and cognitive load.
- Activities: More complex training drills and progressive resistance training.
- Guidance: Ensure no contact or risk of head impact.
Step 5: Full Contact Practice
- Objective: Restore confidence and assess functional skills.
- Activities: Participate in normal training activities after medical clearance.
- Guidance: Close monitoring by coaches and medical staff.
Step 6: Return to Play
- Objective: Resume full game play.
- Activities: Normal sports participation.
- Guidance: Continue to monitor for any recurring symptoms.
Note: Each step should take at least 24 hours. If symptoms reappear, the athlete should rest for 24 hours and drop back to the previous step.
Tips for Parents, Coaches, and Athletes
- Encourage Honest Communication:
- Create an environment where athletes feel safe reporting symptoms.
- Educate About Concussions:
- Provide information sessions for athletes, parents, and coaches.
- Implement Safety Measures:
- Enforce rules that minimize risky play.
- Ensure proper use of protective equipment.
- Provide Emotional Support:
- Recognize the psychological impact of being sidelined.
- Encourage involvement in team activities in non-physical roles.
Incorporating Evidence-Based Exercise Programs
Rehabilitation isn’t just about rest. Incorporating structured, evidence-based exercise programs can significantly aid recovery by improving balance, coordination, and cognitive function.
Vestibular Therapy
- Focus: Addresses issues with balance and spatial orientation.
- Benefits: Reduces dizziness and improves stability.
Vision Therapy
- Focus: Corrects visual disturbances often associated with concussions.
- Benefits: Enhances focus and reduces eye strain and headaches.
Aerobic Conditioning
- Focus: Gradual increase in cardiovascular activity.
- Benefits: Improves blood flow to the brain and aids in healing.
Preventive Strategies to Reduce Future Risks
While it’s impossible to eliminate all risks, certain strategies can significantly reduce the likelihood of future concussions.
Proper Equipment
- Helmets and Gear: Ensure they fit correctly and are in good condition.
- Regular Maintenance: Check equipment regularly for wear and tear.
Training and Technique
- Skill Development: Teach proper techniques for tackling, heading, or other sport-specific actions.
- Strength Training: Focus on neck and core strength to better absorb impacts.
Rule Enforcement and Fair Play
- Strict Adherence to Rules: Enforce penalties for dangerous play.
- Sportsmanship: Promote a culture of respect among players.
Education and Awareness
- Regular Workshops: Keep everyone informed about the latest in concussion management.
- Parental Involvement: Engage parents in educational programs.
The Role of Schools and Sports Organizations
Educational institutions and sports bodies have a significant role in managing and preventing concussions.
Policy Development
- Concussion Protocols: Establish clear guidelines for removal and return to play.
- Academic Adjustments: Provide support for students returning to school post-injury.
Training Programs
- Staff Education: Train coaches, trainers, and teachers to recognize symptoms.
- Emergency Action Plans: Have procedures in place for handling injuries.
MYo Lab’s Comprehensive Support for Young Athletes
At MYo Lab Health & Wellness, we are committed to providing exceptional care tailored to young athletes’ unique needs in Calgary, Alberta.
Our Multidisciplinary Approach
- Collaborative Care: Our team works together to cover all aspects of recovery.
- Family-Centred: We involve family members in the rehabilitation process.
- Customized Plans: Treatment plans are tailored to the individual’s specific needs and sport.
Additional Services
- Mental Health Support: Addressing the psychological impact of injuries.
- Follow-Up Care: Ongoing evaluations to ensure sustained recovery.
Your Partner in Concussion Management and Recovery
Concussions are serious injuries that require immediate and comprehensive management, especially in young athletes whose brains are still developing. By following a structured return-to-play protocol, utilizing evidence-based rehabilitation programs, and leveraging the multidisciplinary services at MYo Lab Health & Wellness, young athletes can safely return to the sports they love.
Remember, the priority is the athlete’s long-term health and well-being. Patience, proper care, and support systems are key to a successful recovery. For personalized assistance and more information on concussion management, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at MYo Lab Health & Wellness.