Sport-Related Concussion

Sport-related concussion is classified as a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) resulting from direct or indirect impacts to the head, neck, or body. Symptoms include dizziness, headaches, nausea, and cognitive impairment, often resolving within weeks but potentially persisting beyond a month. Diagnosis is based on symptom presentation within 72 hours, supported by vestibular and oculomotor assessments rather than neuroimaging. Strict physical and cognitive rest ("cocooning") is discouraged, as early symptom-guided light activity promotes faster recovery. Graduated aerobic exercise within 24 to 72 hours post-injury reduces prolonged symptoms, with tailored rehabilitation programs based on patient-specific responses to exertion. Cervical injury frequently accompanies concussion, delaying recovery if left untreated. School reintegration should precede unrestricted sports participation, with individualized academic adjustments ensuring an optimal return-to-learning strategy. Evidence-based guidelines emphasize early medical follow-up and active symptom management to prevent repeat concussions and facilitate recovery.

Sport-related concussion is classified as a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) resulting from direct or indirect impacts to the head, neck, or body. Symptoms include dizziness, headaches, nausea, and cognitive impairment, often resolving within weeks but potentially persisting beyond a month. Diagnosis is based on symptom presentation within 72 hours, supported by vestibular and oculomotor assessments rather than neuroimaging. Strict physical and cognitive rest ("cocooning") is discouraged, as early symptom-guided light activity promotes faster recovery. Graduated aerobic exercise within 24 to 72 hours post-injury reduces prolonged symptoms, with tailored rehabilitation programs based on patient-specific responses to exertion. Cervical injury frequently accompanies concussion, delaying recovery if left untreated. School reintegration should precede unrestricted sports participation, with individualized academic adjustments ensuring an optimal return-to-learning strategy. Evidence-based guidelines emphasize early medical follow-up and active symptom management to prevent repeat concussions and facilitate recovery.