Dr. Nichole Chaviano, PT, DPT
As our children prepare for their upcoming school year and sports teams begin camps, practice or tryouts, parents should educate themselves on some of the potential injuries that can be sustained throughout the year including multiple orthopedic injuries or overuse injuries that occur with poor form or repetitive activities as well as the hot topic of concussions.
Sports concussion prevalence is on the rise with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting more than 3.8 million concussions per year, double what was reported 10 years prior. The increases can be a result of increased number of participants in sports, the increase in incidence or most likely the increased awareness of the importance of early diagnosis. When concussions are left undetected there is a high chance for second-impact syndrome as well as the risk for long-term brain damage and potential fatality.
The statistics are staggering, with 1 in 5 high school athletes reporting a concussion during the season with one-third of all concussions happening at practice. It is important to note that 90 percent of diagnosed concussions do not involve a loss of consciousness so it is more important than ever that all coaches and parents be educated on the signs and symptoms of this condition as well as what to do if it is suspected in their athlete. The ability to respond quickly can be the difference in how that child recovers. Any child that is suspected of concussion should be removed from activity until evaluated and cleared by a healthcare provider who is experienced in diagnosing concussions.
While all athletes are at risk for concussion, the activities for which concussion accounted for the most Emergency Room visits include bicycling, football, rugby, hockey, basketball, ice skating and sledding. For most children under age 9, incidence of concussion mostly occurred during common playground activities and with biking.
To minimize concussion in sports and recreation, a number of easy to follow strategies should be implemented:
- Use protective equipment appropriate for the sport/activity, be sure it is well fitting and used correctly.
- Adhere to all rules in sports, and use appropriate and safe techniques especially those involving expected contact such as football and rugby lines.
- Preparation of the athlete prior to the season including injury prevention, strengthening and screening.
If you suspect a concussion, the athlete should be removed from sport immediately due to the risk of second impact syndrome. In addition, it is important to stay with the athlete to monitor symptoms closely and a medical professional should be contacted. Diagnostic testing is not generally warranted but it is important to medically clear fractures and brain bleeds if symptoms are present.
Athletes should be removed from sport until there is complete resolution of symptoms and he/she is cleared by a trained health care provider. Some athletes require treatment by a physical therapist who is specially trained to assess and treat symptoms and return the athlete back to sport quickly and safely.
Visit our website for information regarding signs and symptoms to be aware of as well as what to do if your child session sustains a concussion and how physical therapy can help. If your child is experiencing any of the symptoms listed on our website, feel free to contact our office to schedule a complimentary consultation.
Dr. Nichole Chaviano is an associate at ProFysio Physical Therapy and she has undergone extensive training through ImPact, the most widely used and only FDA-approved concussion evaluation system. Dr. Nichole provides concussion management backed by clinical research to determine when an individual can safely return to activity.
ProFysio Physical Therapy is located in Aberdeen and Holmdel. Visit www.ProFysioNJ.com or call 732-201-7450.
