Concussion Information

What is a Concussion?

“A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury, or TBI, caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that can change the way your brain normally works. Concussions can also occur from a blow to the body that causes the head to move rapidly back and forth.” —CDC, Heads Up: Concussion

Public Act 14-66 An Act Concerning Youth Athletics and Concussions


SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Signs of a concussion may include(i.e. what the athlete displays/looks like to an observer):
  • Confusion/disorientation/irritability
  • Trouble resting/getting comfortable
  • Lack of concentration
  • Slow response/drowsiness
  • Incoherent/slurred speech
  • Slow/clumsy movements
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Amnesia/memory problems
  • Acts silly, combative or aggressive
  • Repeatedly asks the same questions
  • Dazed appearance
  • Restless/irritable
  • Constant attempts to return to play
  • Constant motion
  • Disproportionate/inappropriate reactions
  • Balance problems


Symptoms of a concussion may include(i.e. what the athlete reports):
  • Headache or dizziness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Blurred or double vision
  • Oversensitivity to sound/light/touch
  • Ringing in ears
  • Feeling foggy or groggy


State law requires that a coach MUST immediately remove a student-athlete from participating in any intramural or interscholastic athletic activity who: a) is observed to exhibit signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion following a suspected blow to the head or body, or b) is diagnosed with a concussion, regardless of when such concussion or head injury may have occurred. Upon removal of the athlete, a qualified school employee must notify the parent or legal guardian within 24 hours that the student athlete has exhibited signs and symptoms of a concussion.

RETURN TO PLAY PROTOCOL


Once documented clearance is provided by a medical professional, the student may begin RTP Protocol under the supervision of Athletic Training Services provided by the Region 8 School District.
Multiple stages cannot be passed in a day. Full Return To Play will take a minimum of 5 days to complete. After a student completes RTP Protocol, they will be allowed to fully participate in their sport again.
Stage 1:Rehabilitation stage: No activityStage 2:Rehabilitation stage: Light aerobic exerciseStage 3:Rehabilitation stage: Sport specific exercise No contactStage 4:Rehabilitation stage: Non-contact sport drillsStage 5:Rehabilitation stage: Full contact sport drillsStage 6:Rehabilitation stage: Full activity