As the cricket season is in full swing, and many of our young football players are preparing for the football season, it is worth revisiting a very important topic – concussion and the effects it can have on players if not properly managed.
There is increasing awareness and focus amongst health professionals about the adverse effects and impairments after mild traumatic brain injury or concussion. We see evidence of this on the football field – the NRL, Rugby, AFL and the cricket field. The team physio or medic runs onto the pitch/field and carries out an on-field assessment to determine the suitability of the player to continue playing. This generally involves a symptom checklist, examination of mental status, and neurocognitive testing. But just what is a concussion and what should you do after suffering a suspected concussion?