Concussion Resources

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A concussion is a brain injury. It can’t be seen on X-rays, CT scans or MRIs. It may affect the way a person thinks, feels and acts.

Any blow to the head, face or neck may cause a concussion. A concussion may also be caused by a blow to the body if the force of the blow causes the brain to move around inside the skull. A concussion can happen to anyone – anywhere.

There are many signs and symptoms of a concussion to look out for, including:

• headache
• dizziness
• ringing in the ears
• memory loss
• nausea
• light sensitivity
• drowsiness
• depression

If you notice signs of a concussion in others, or experience any of these symptoms yourself, consult with a physician or nurse practitioner.

In some cases, concussions or repeat concussions can result in:

• swelling of the brain
• permanent brain damage
• death

 Rowan’s Law (Concussion Safety), 2018, makes Ontario a national leader in concussion management and prevention by establishing mandatory requirements that call for:

• Mandatory review of concussion awareness resources to help prevent, identify and manage concussions

• Removal-from-sport and return-to-sport protocols

• A concussion code of conduct 

There are more and more resources being made available to players, parents and coaches about concussions. Please keep yourself aware of your child's health, and any changes you may see.

Rowan's Law: Concussion Awareness

 https://www.ontario.ca/page/rowans-law-concussion-awareness-resources 

Complete Concussion Management

 https://completeconcussions.com/ 

Concussion Guidelines for Parents

 http://www.parachutecanada.org/downloads/resources/Concussion-Parents-Caregivers.pdf 

Remember that a child with an injury needs medical treatment, rest, support, and guidance.

Just because we can't see the injury doesn't mean it's not there. Young athletes may need to be reminded that they don't need to "play through the pain". 

HIT.

STOP.

SIT.

As a parent you can help keep them on track with a Return to Play recovery plan that has been overseen by a medical professional - and help them STICK TO IT!