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Concussion Education for Fall: Empowering Coaches, Parents, and Players

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High school and college contact sports, particularly football, pose a significant risk of concussions to their players. This undeniable fact affects not only the young athletes but their parents and coaches as well. At Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine, a nonsurgical practice with four offices across Long Island, our physiatrists have over 20 years of experience diagnosing and treating concussions effectively using a holistic approach. 

In this blog, we want to highlight Dr. Areeb Chator, our newest team member, who has come to us with impeccable credentials and extensive experience in concussion management. He helps to ensure that patients with concussions, whether they have been injured playing a contact sport or in some other accident, receive the best care possible.

What Are Concussions?

Concussions are traumatic brain injuries (TMIs) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth within the skull. This sudden movement can lead to chemical changes in the brain and sometimes damage brain cells.

For parents, even the threat of a concussion to their child is distressing, especially considering the potential long-term effects on cognitive function and overall health. Coaches are all too aware of their responsibility to make sure their students are wearing all required safety gear and obeying safety protocols. It’s critical that coaches and parents, as well as the athletes themselves, learn to recognize the symptoms of concussions.

Recognizing Symptoms of Concussions, Even Mild Ones

Recognizing the signs of a concussion is vital for prompt diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms can vary but may include:

  • Headache or pressure in the head
  • Confusion or brain fog
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Dizziness or balance problems
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Difficulty concentrating or remembering
  • Changes in mood or behavior

Even mild concussions require attention, as ignoring symptoms or returning to play too soon can prolong recovery and increase the risk of further injury.

The Importance of Following Concussion Protocol

In treating concussions, accurate diagnosis is a top priority since ruling out other conditions and taking immediate steps to treat the concussion are essential. Dr. Chator provides specialized care for individuals who have suffered acute concussions. During the initial appointment, he will evaluate and diagnose your condition so that he can provide you with proper guidance on how to proceed.

It is critical that you follow his directives, even if they seem overly cautious. The concussion protocol includes:

Immediate Removal from Playing Field

This step is essential to preventing further injury. Athletes suspected of having a concussion should always be removed from the playing field immediately, even in the middle of an important game.

Evaluation by Healthcare Professional

A healthcare provider experienced in concussion management, like Dr. Chator, should evaluate the athlete to determine the severity of the concussion and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Physical and Cognitive Rest

Rest is crucial in the initial stages of concussion recovery to allow the brain to heal. This includes avoiding physical exertion, screen time, and activities that are mentally taxing.

When Should You See the Doctor?

It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect a concussion, even if the symptoms are mild. Only a healthcare professional can determine what the next steps should be. Although it’s certainly better to be safe than sorry, the following symptoms make getting medical attention urgent:

  • Loss of consciousness, even briefly
  • Worsening or severe headache
  • Vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Slurred speech
  • Weakness or numbness in limbs

Prompt medical evaluation reduces the risk of complications.

Available Treatments for Concussions

At Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine, our focus is on managing symptoms and supporting recovery. Depending on the severity of the concussion, treatments may include:

Rest and Activity Modification

Physical and cognitive rest is essential in the early stages of recovery. Once the doctor gives you the okay, you will be advised to gradually reintroduce activities as symptoms improve.

Medication 

Pain relievers (not NSAIDs which can cause internal bleeding) may be prescribed to manage the headache and neck pain associated with concussions. 

Other Nonsurgical Therapies

At Long Island Spine, we have several minimally-invasive treatments to choose from when it comes to relieving the symptoms of concussions and related sports injuries, including:

In many cases, we find it productive to use therapies in combination for maximum effect.

Cognitive Rehabilitation

If necessary, we will refer you to a neuropsychologist for cognitive rehabilitation to help you regain your ability to focus, concentrate, and complete mental tasks.

National Concussion Awareness Day in September

Each year, National Concussion Awareness Day, on the third Friday in September, focuses community attention on concussions, providing education on prevention, recognition, and treatment of these traumatic injuries. This day serves as a reminder for athletes, parents, coaches, and healthcare professionals to prioritize brain safety in contact sports and other activities.

At LI Spine, We Focus on Preventing, Diagnosing & Treating Concussions Every Day

Concussions are serious injuries that require proper management and care. Dr. Chator and all of our doctors are deeply committed to providing concussion care that promotes holistic healing for athletes of all ages. At the first sign of a concussion, get in touch with our skilled, responsive physicians.
Whether you’re a concerned parent, a dedicated coach, or an athlete seeking expert guidance, we are here to support you. Be proactive. Contact us today to be well-prepared for the rough and tumble, as well as the excitement, of contact sports this fall.