Home > Kids > Childhood Safety > First Aid > Young Athletes at Risk for Concussions
|

Young Athletes at Risk for Concussions

by Lindsay Hutton

In This Article:

Keeping your child safe

Even with the known dangers, research suggests as many as 50 percent of child athlete concussions go undiagnosed or untreated--a dangerous number since, according to the AAP, a child who has had one concussion is 2 to 4 times more likely to have another. Because of this, the AAP has issued new guidelines to follow when dealing with a child athlete who has suffered a possible concussion:

  • Children who sustain a concussion should not return to play until they receive medical clearance from a health care professional with experience in concussion management in young athletes.
  • Child athletes should not be returned to play on the same day of the concussion, even if they become asymptomatic.
  • All athletes should be restricted from physical activity and mental exertion until they are asymptomatic. Schools should work with the students to modify workloads to promote a quicker recovery and avoid exacerbation of their symptoms.
  • Neuropsychological testing should be used as one tool in the complete management of a sport-related concussion.
  • CT or MRI should be performed in the event of a suspected concussion.
  • Retirement from contact sports may be necessary for an athlete who has sustained multiple concussions, or who has suffered from prolonged post-concussive symptoms.

    • For more information on concussions among young athletes, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics.



    |

    you might also like:

    from our community:


    what’s hot

    1. Top 10 End-of-the-Year Gifts for Teachers
    2. 10 Gender-Predicting Old Wives' Tales
    3. Top 12 Fundraising Ideas
    4. VIEW ALL

    stay connected

    Sign up for our free email newsletters and receive the latest advice and information on all things parenting.

    Enter your email address to sign up or manage your account.

    Facebook icon Twitter icon Follow Us on Pinterest

    editor’s picks

    highlights

    Top 10 End-of-Year Teacher Gifts
    School is in the final stretch! Find unique and sweet teacher appreciation gifts to help say thanks and farewell to your favorite educator at the end of the school year.

    10 Most Common Pregnancy Cravings Decoded
    Sweet, salty, sour, spicy — cravings during pregnancy can run the gamut. Read on to find out what foods pregnant women crave the most and why.

    Safest Sunscreens for Kids
    Wondering what the best sunscreens are to use on your child? Check out these natural sunscreens for kids. They're chemical-free and will keep your child safe from the sun’s harmful rays.

    Are Your Kids Sick of Sandwiches for Lunch?
    By this point in the school year, your kids are probably tired of the same old sandwiches. Find some new and different school lunch ideas that will help fuel your child through June.