Concussion
Sporting concussion has received much attention in recent times due to the now documented potential long term affects on health and quality of life. Concussion is essentially a traumatic brain injury which causes temporary loss of or altered brain function which can last hours to months or even years. It is caused by impact forces to the head or body causing the brain to shake inside the skull. There are tests that are undertaken by physios who are trained in this area to identify signs and symptoms, and any suspicion of concussion should result in a referral to a doctor skilled in the area.
If concussion has been diagnosed, you should work together with your doctor and physio to create a return to play plan. This should be a step-by-step plan which gradually builds you up from complete mental and physical rest all the way through to full contact training and return to play.
