Concussions are categorized as a traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump or blow to the head. Concussions can also result from a jolt to the body or fall that causes the head and brain to move back and forth quickly. While not always the case, concussions often occur during sports and physical activity.
It is highly important that coaches and parents alike understand the symptoms of a concussion. Athletes with a concussion may try to “tough it out” if the symptoms aren’t terrible or may not even notice any issues right away.
It is up to the coach to know the signs enough to make the call and pull an athlete out of the game or practice.
Symptoms of a concussion are most often placed into four categories:
In 2012, there were more than 3.8 million concussions reported – double what was recorded a decade before.
Contact sports account for more of the reported concussions than non-contact sports, though all physical activity carries a risk.
While many may think that concussions are isolated incidences, they are much more common than you may think, and they don’t only happen during a high-intensity game or match.
For additional statistics: Sports Concussion Statistics