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"When can my child get back out on the field doc?"
Return to play
▸ Concussion symptoms should be resolved before returning to exercise.
▸ A RTP progression involves a gradual, step-wise increase in physical
demands, sports-specific activities and the risk for contact.
▸ If symptoms occur with activity, the progression should be halted and
restarted at the preceding symptom-free step.
▸ RTP after concussion should occur only with medical clearance from a
licenced healthcare provider trained in the evaluation and management
of concussions.
Short-term risks of premature RTP
▸ The primary concern with early RTP is decreased reaction time leading
to an increased risk of a repeat concussion or other injury and
prolongation of symptoms.
Long-term effects
▸ There is an increasing concern that head impact exposure and
recurrent concussions contribute to long-term neurological sequelae.
▸ Some studies have suggested an association between prior concussions
and chronic cognitive dysfunction. Large-scale epidemiological studies are
needed to more clearly define risk factors and causation of any long-term
neurological impairment.
References
American Medical Society for Sports Medicine
position statement: concussion in sport, 2013