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Backus Hospital is partnering with local coaches, former pro athletes, radio personalities, parents and their children to minimize the impact of concussion in youth sports.
Concussion Forum
Big crowd attends
discussion on concussion
Approximately 90 people – from East Lyme to Killingly – attended a recent youth sports concussion forum at Backus Hospital.
Q&A: Frequently asked questions about youth sports concussions
After suffering a concussion, when is it safe for an athlete to return to competition?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the incident. In general, the athlete should be symptom-free before beginning a program where activities gradually escalate from stationary cycling to a full return. If at any time symptoms return, the progression stops and the previous level resumes.
If an athlete suffers a concussion, who determines when to resume an activity?
After suffering a concussion, no athlete should return until they have been evaluated by a medical professional with experience in the treatment of concussion. Proof of medical clearance should be provided in writing.
In a situation where there are complaints of a headache and nausea but head trauma is uncertain, should the athlete be removed from the contest?
Absolutely. It is sometimes difficult to determine if and when head trauma occurred and the patient may have amnesia. When in doubt, it is best to eliminate the possibility of further harm.
At what age should an athlete begin neck strengthening exercises to prevent indirect concussion?
Any strengthening program in a child should be initiated in conjunction with a strength and conditioning specialist.