Be Smart
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
5. Full-contact training after medical clearance
6. Game Play