Sports-Related Concussion

Diagnosis and Treatment

To help diagnose a sports-related concussion your doctor will perform a thorough neurological examination that evaluates balance, coordination, hearing, vision, and reflexes. A CT and/or MRI scan is not needed in most cases, however may be suggested to help guide a personalized treatment plan.

Rest often serves as the priority protocol for concussion treatment. Temporary removal of stimulants such as computer work, video games, television, and even reading may be necessary for a short duration (typically seven to ten days).

Again, based on the severity of concussion will determine the exact individualized treatment plan for each patient.

At EmergeOrtho, part of our recovery plan for each patient who has sustained a concussion is to ensure open communication with the athlete, parents, coaches, teachers, and school administration.

Baseline Concussion Testing: Why it is important

A valid baseline concussion test is the first step to effective concussion management. The baseline test is essentially a “physical” for the brain. It should be completed prior to any sports season. As the adolescent matures or an athlete sustains a head injury, the test should be retaken for an accurate baseline measure.

The computerized testing is set-up similar to a video game and takes roughly 30 minutes to complete. It collects information such as memory, reaction time, speed, and concentration to obtain a set of individual control data. The baseline test is appropriate for those between the ages of 10 and 59 years old, who are at risk for a sport-related concussion.

No concussion is the same. It is important to care for each concussion individually. Personalized baseline concussion test scores are compared with post-injury scores. Without a baseline test to use for evaluation, an individual’s post-injury scores can only be compared to the general population.

*Please note that baseline testing may only be available at select EmergeOrtho locations.

Second Impact Syndrome (SIS)

Second Impact Syndrome (SIS) occurs when an athlete sustains a head injury while still symptomatic from a previous head injury. SIS is of great concern in pediatric athletes due to the immaturity of the brain. It is also a concern when a concussion is not reported or misdiagnosed. SIS results in cerebral swelling and increased intracranial pressure leading to coma then death. Although SIS is rare it is important to be aware and educated of the condition, especially for young athletes.

Return to Activity

No return to play or physical activity should occur while signs or symptoms of a concussion are present. It is recommended that an athlete with a suspected concussion not return to play until he or she has been medically evaluated. This is a requirement in North Carolina (Gfeller-Waller Concussion Awareness Act) to protect the safety of student-athletes.

EmergeOrtho Concussion Care

As North Carolina’s premier orthopedic solution for concussion care, we cover athletes participating across a spectrum of sports and activities; including middle/high school, college, recreational, elite, and professional levels of play.

For concussion baseline testing or concussion management solutions, schedule a consultation now with one of our highly-qualified EmergeOrtho physicians.