Sitting on a school board in New York State, I know that concussions in youth sports are a hot topic at present.  Legislation has been introduced into the legislature that will detail how a student will rehabilitate from a concussion, including believing a concussion to be present whether diagnosed or not.  This legislation, which could take effect as early as July 1 of this year, would apply to all New York State public school students, regardless of how the concussion was incurred – sports, PE class, just goofing around.

Concussions are very difficult to diagnose.  It is equally hard for those so diagnosed to realize that there is a need for little or no activity to heal the brain.  Strangely, parents first think of sports such as football when thinking of concussions.  While a possibility in football, I believe that some other sports may be more likely to be the cause – soccer and basketball come to mind.

While playing both competitive travel soccer and high school varsity soccer, my daughter suffered several concussions.  These brain injuries ranged from minor to rather major.  The cause was different each time: a ball to the head not properly taken, a header where contact made with another head.  The biggest common part was that my daughter wanted to continue to play even though the head ache was almost debilitating.

Diagnosis is difficult, also.  My daughter has had CT scans.  Luckily, the doctor could convince our insurance company that these were necessary.  This is not always the case.  Concussions are becoming such an issue for children and teenagers that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has started a Heads Up campaign.

Parents need to recognize what a concussion is and what the warning signs of such are.  Many coaches feel kids should just play through such issues so learn to be an advocate for your child, your athlete.  Be sure to get your child to a doctor to be diagnosed and follow medical treatment to the letter.  It is also important to be sure that your teenager does not self-medicate for a concussion.  Many will not want to miss practice or games and so will keep you in the dark.  Learn what the symptoms are for a concussion so that you can take the best care of your child, teenager.

The CDC has several different toolkits on concussions for different interest groups: parents, schools, school athletics, youth athletics.  Check out the toolkits and be sure to let your school or coach know that these are available.  Toughing out a brain injury – which is what a concussion is – is not an option! Educate yourself, your coach, your school and your child/teen.

I wrote this blog post while participating in a SocialMoms blogging program for which I may receive a thank you kit.  For more information on how you can participate, click here.