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The truth about concussions

January 8, 2016   ·   0 Comments

Concussion has been defined as the pathophysiological processed affecting the brain created by traumatic forces. Aggressive contact sport such as ice hockey and football are famous for having players that sustain concussions. It is estimated that every four minutes a person in Canada sustains a concussion. There is evidence that 1.6 to 3.8 million people in the United States suffer a concussion each year. Although most signs and symptoms of concussion will resolve overtime if recognized and managed appropriately, any lingering symptoms can be detrimental to daily life and career ending.

The vast majority of concussions occur for young people. The average age for a first concussion is 10. One third of youth will have a concussion before they leave high school. Young people who actively participate in organized sport have a much greater likelihood of experiencing a concussion. Some youth who experience a concussion can end up with learning disabilities.

Approximately 20% of concussions will result from organized sports activities with the remainder resulting from motor vehicle accidents, work related accidents, accidents in the playground or from interpersonal crime.

Ongoing headaches, difficulty in busy places, fatigue with short intervals of reading or watching television, tired after responding to emails and text messages due to a previous head injury are symptoms consistent with post concussion and left untreated can last for years after the initial injury.

In 2013 our Health Minister Rena Ambrose stated “Whether it’s [a result of] a hockey concussion, a senior’s fall or violence in the home, injuries take a huge emotional toll on families and communities,” she went on to say “Our government is committed to promoting injury prevention by supporting research aimed at improving the health of Canadians who are facing challenges due to traumatic brain injury.”

Here at Tottenham concussion center we look towards prevention of concussions managing symptoms as well as returning our clients to a normal functional level. In conjunction with a certified medical doctor as well as a pediatric doctor, physiotherapist and chiropractor to meet the needs of the clients both pre and post conscussion.

Pre-concussion baseline testing is a pre-season exam conducted by our team of trained health care professional. Baseline tests are used to assess an athlete’s balance and brain function (including learning and memory skills, ability to pay attention or concentrate, and how quickly the client thinks and solve problems), as well as for the presence of any concussion symptoms. Results from baseline tests (or pre-injury tests) can be used and compared to a similar exam conducted by a health care professional during the season if an athlete has a suspected concussion.

Baseline testing should include a check for concussion symptoms, as well as balance and cognitive (such as concentration and memory) assessments. Computerized or paper-pencil neuropsychological tests may be included as a piece of an overall baseline test to assess an athlete’s concentration, memory, and reaction time.

During the baseline pre-season test, health care professionals should also assess for a prior history of concussion (including symptoms experienced and length of recovery from the injury). It is also important to record other medical conditions that could impact recovery after concussion, such as a history of migraines, depression, mood disorders, or anxiety, as well as learning disabilities and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

According to the Canadian centre for disease control baseline testing also provides an important opportunity to educate athletes and others about concussion and return to school and play protocols.

Baseline testing generally takes place during the pre-season—ideally prior to the first practice. It is important to note that some baseline and concussion assessment tools are only suggested for use among athletes ages 10 years and older and should be done yearly as mental capacity changes. Results from baseline testing can be used if an athlete has a suspected concussion. Comparing post-injury test results to baseline test results can assist health care professionals in identifying the effects of the injury and making more informed return to school and play decisions.

Into 2011 the Canadian medical Association published an article with regard to concussion and return to play. The highlighted conclusion identified a need for education about return to play with players who continue to be symptomatic. It also identifies I need to be more cautious and pro active when dealing with early-stage post concussion.

Timely recognition and appropriate response is important in treating a mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) or concussion. Health care providers can play a key role in helping to prevent a concussion and to improve a patient’s health outcomes through early diagnosis, management, and appropriate referral.

By Daniela Fuliere, Tottenham Physiotherapy

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