Concussions are very common in sports activities. Luckily most are minor. They can, however, cause serious complications. Athletes with suspected concussion must be correctly evaluated and treated to prevent permanent damage or serious injury.

• Concussions are defined as any change in mental status or symptoms following trauma to the head, neck or upper body. The symptoms are variable and often subtle.

• An athlete should never return to play or practice during the same day in which a suspected concussion occurred.

• Any athlete with a suspected concussion should be evaluated by an athletic trainer or physician prior to retuning to play. No one else should make this decision.

• Athletes sustaining a concussion should never return to play while still symptomatic. Gradual return to activity begins once the athlete is symptom free at rest. This return to activity should be closely supervised by the treating physician or athletic trainer.

• Multiple concussions require longer recovery times prior to return to play.

For more information on concussions, click here.

For information on detecting signs and symptoms of concussion, as well as a guide for on-field or sideline testing for concussion, click here.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers a guide to coaches on the topic of concussion. You can find it here.

Physician appointments:
Guthrie Medical Erwin, Painted Post, NY - (607) 937-4900 or
Guthrie Clinic Sayre, Sayre, PA - (570) 882-2239

Athletic trainer & sports rehabilitation appointments:
HealthWorks, Painted Post, NY - (607) 937-4800 or
Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, PA - (570) 882-4808