How to recognise a Concussion injury

Concussions in kids is something not to be missed! Children are more susceptible to concussion than adults ‘due to the fact their brains and bodies are still growing.’ Concussion doesn’t just occur with winter sports, they can also occur in other activities such as ‘cycling accidents and falling at the playground.’

• HOW TO RECOGNISE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF A CONCUSSION:
  Loss of consciousness

• Headache

• Pressure in the head

• Neck pain

• Nausea or vomiting

• Dizziness or vertigo

• Blurred vision

• Balance problems

• Sensitivity to light

• Not feeling right/feeling off

• Difficulty concentrating

• Difficulty remembering

• Fatigue or low energy

• Confusion

• Drowsiness

• Trouble falling asleep

• More emotional

• Irritability

• Sadness

• Nervous or anxious

If there is a suspected concussion, here is what you need to do:

Remove any risk for further injuries. For instance, pull the player off the field, remove the child from the playground, or avoid having the injured person sitting in the middle of a busy pathway.

Close observation for “red flags” (below) in the first 24 to 48 hours after a concussion is very important. “Red flags” are signs of potentially more serious or life-threatening conditions. See below for a list. If there are signs of deterioration or if you are unsure, take them to the emergency department immediately.

Make an appointment immediately. If you are concussed, you need to have a full and thorough evaluation by a healthcare practitioner with training in concussion within 2 days of the injury. Early assessment, treatment and rehabilitation can help you get back to work, play, or doing the things that you love doing.

FACT: 90% of concussions do not result in a loss of consciousness and symptoms may only start to appear days after the injury occurred.

The first 48 hours after concussion are critical and require close monitoring, click here for what to do.

The Physio Space as a clinic affiliated with the global Complete Concussion Management network, we have physiotherapists trained in assessing and treating concussions. If you would like to make an appointment you can reach us at 

Moss Vale Clinic: 4868 3994

Bowral Clinic: 4861 1223

Or book online via the website.

For more information on concussion injuries and management click this concussion link