What is it?
A concussion (MTBI) is a brain injury caused by a sudden blow to an individual’s head or an intense shaking of the head and body possibly leading to further issues and temporary cognitive symptoms such as lack of coordination, nausea, dizziness, and extreme fatigue. Rest and limiting activities are the only way to help the brain recover; no sports is a limitation that occurs. Overall, it is a mild traumatic brain injury that impacts brain function.
Why is it an issue?
Sport-related concussions are a growing health concern among Australia. Concerns that have risen about these incidents with athletes have caused an increased focus on the importance of diagnosing and handling the condition carefully. Not only athletes but coaches, parents and medical practitioners are searching for information regarding the best way to manage sport-related concussions. “Participants safety and welfare is paramount when dealing with all concussion incidents” (2). When these concussions to occur in young adolescents, symptom resolution doesn’t mean full cognitive recovery due to neuropsychological testing often show persistent cognitive deficits in 80%-90% of individuals with typical recovery. Studies on many retired American football players who have a history of head injuries have shown that recurrent concussion leads to an increased risk of late-life cognitive decline and depression.
Who does it effect?
These concussions are known to affect all kinds of athletes that associate with different levels, from those who participate in sports part-time for recreational purposes to full-time professionals.
Is it Local, national, or global?
Participation in contact-sport is high in children and adolescents with up to “73.9% of children in Australia participating in sports at least once or more a year” (3) meaning they are prone to experiencing sport-related concussions. Evidence from conducted research supports the idea that children and adolescents aged 18 and under recover from concussions at a significantly slower rate. Due to this, a more conservation approach is recommended, and return to learn should take priority over return to sport. More regular breaks, rests, and increased time to complete tasks may need to be implemented by schools with the child not returning to contact activities within 14 days from the resolution of all symptoms.