Sports Concussions
The Children’s Health Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine specializes in the evaluation and treatment of concussions. We have assembled a team of experts, including sports medicine specialists and a neuropsychologist, who together, provide high quality and comprehensive care for children and teens with concussions.
What are Sports Concussions?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that most often occurs in contact sports such as football and soccer. It’s caused by powerful blow to the body or the head that shakes the brain inside the skull, possibly damaging nerves and blood vessels. When this happens, the brain may not function normally, causing problems with vision, hearing, balance and memory. In extreme situations, permanent brain damage can occur, or even death. Such situations should always be considered serious – there is no such thing as a “minor concussion.”
What are the signs and symptoms of Sports Concussions?
The signs and symptoms of concussions vary from child to child, depending on severity of the trauma. These commonly include:
Symptoms may worsen in the days following the injury – especially when the brain is stressed, such as during schoolwork or sports.
While concussions aren’t life threatening, the consequences are sometimes serious. When a child experiences a head injury, we advise parents to seek treatment as soon as possible, to avoid any possible further brain damage.
Here are important precautions for the athlete who might have sustained a concussion:
Rest and avoid strenuous activity: Exercise or activities involving concentration – such as studying, working on the computer or playing video games – might cause concussion symptoms to reappear or get worse.
Prevent re-injury: Avoid all sports until your doctor has given you clearance. Ask when it it’s safe to drive a car, ride a bike, or work.
No alcohol or illicit drugs
Do not take medications to assist with sleep
Do not drive until medically cleared
Do not take aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
How are Sports Concussions diagnosed?
Concussions are a common condition in children, but can be difficult to diagnose. Symptoms are often vague and may come and go in the days and weeks following the injury. Fortunately, the sports medicine specialists at the Children's Health Andrews Institute are experts at diagnosing concussions.
When a child is diagnosed early, our physicians can use effective treatments that enable a safe return to normal activities such as sports. Our physicians start with a full assessment and evaluation that includes a medical history review and physical exam.
Your child’s physical evaluation may test:
Head-and-neck range of motion
Vision
Hearing
Reflexes
Balance and coordination
Memory and concentration
In rare cases, we may order an imaging scan — such as an MRI or CT scan — to examine the brain for possible bleeding or swelling in the skull.
What are the causes of Sports Concussions?
Concussions can be caused by mechanical force or trauma sustained during any sport/athletic activity. Most frequently, but not always, it results from a direct blow to the head. A concussion might also be caused by a blow to the body, as when an athlete makes contact with another, or hits a hard surface, or is hit by a piece of equipment.
How are Sports Concussions treated?
At the Children's Health Andrews Institute, we are committed to helping your child return safely to normal activities like sports and play. Our sports concussion experts customize treatment plans based on each child’s symptoms and test results. Learn more about our Sports Concussion Program.
Pediatric Concussion Doctors and Providers
