Concussion Protocol Athlos Leadership Academy Dr. Arthur Abello Managing Partner - Physician’s Premier Brook’s City Base

What is a concussion? A concussion is a brain injury It is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body. It can change the way your brain normally works. It can an occur during practices or games in any sport or recreational activity. It CAN happen even if you haven’t been knocked out. Can be serious even if you’ve just been “dinged” or “had your bell rung.”

What are symptoms of a concussion? Headache or “pressure” in head Nausea or vomiting Balance problems or dizziness Double or blurry vision Bothered by light or noise Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy Difficulty paying attention Memory problems Confusion

What is the treatment for a concussion? Thankfully most concussions resolve on their own, however If you get a repeat injury during the time your brain is still healing, you are at increased risk of long term damage. So….REST YOUR BRAIN! Do not return to play until cleared by a healthcare professional.

How do we clear you to return to play? Suspected concussion? Removed immediately from play Given an “Initial Physician Release Form” Go to the doctor who starts the “Return to Play Protocol” form This is a step process Each step takes at least one day If symptoms return at any time, the athlete must stop all play activity and be re-evaluated by the doctor.

Initial Physician Release Form At this time, the student athlete, ________________________(name), is medically cleared to initiate the return to play procedure following a concussion, per the return to play guidelines (detailed below). Yes______ No______ If no, I plan to see the student athlete back again for re-evaluation on ___________(date).   Please complete and sign this form and return it to the student athlete to provide to his or her school supervisor or coach. ­­________________________________(MD or DO) Date______

Return To Play Steps ________________Step 1: Light aerobic exercise (e.g. walking and stationary cycling; NO resistance training/weight lifting) ________________Step 2: Sport specific exercise including resistance training (e.g. jogging, throwing; NO batting or impact activities ________________Step 3: Begin drills without body contact (Sprinting/Cutting, Batting etc. allowed but NO body contact ________________Step 4: Begin drills with body contact ________________Step 5: Final written clearance from MD to return to Full Game Play Activity

Questions?

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