A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that causes the brain to shift back and forth, ultimately causing chemical changes in the brain. The shifting of the brain can be caused by both a contact or non-contact mechanism.
Common Symptoms are:
Common Signs are:
MAJORITY OF CONCUSSIONS DO NOT INVOLVE LOSS OF CONSCIOUSNESS
Step 1: Ride on a stationary bike for 15 minutes at 55% -65% of their max heart rate
Step 2: Run on elliptical for 20 minutes at 65% - 75% of their max heart rate
Step 3: Run on treadmill for 25 minutes at 75% - 85% of their max heart rate
Step 4: Non-contact practice and sport specific drills
Step 5: Full contact practice/ normal practice
Step 6: Return fully to activity
** IN ORDER TO START THE RETURN TO PLAY PROTOCOL THE ATHLETE MUST HAVE A NOTE FROM THEIR DOCTOR ALLOWING IT
**Each step is done with 24 hours between them
** The athlete must remain asymptomatic following each step in order to progress to the next step
** The protocol must be completed with the athletic trainer