Parents and Sports-Related Concussions

Michelle Camicia, MSN, PhD, the mother of two student athletes, discusses the role of parents who must pay attention to their childrens’ symptoms if they play contact sports. Are these symptoms consistently understood by student athletes and coaches? She argues for more education and advocacy to address the problem of sports-related concussion in high school sports.

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A Parent’s Key Role after a Child’s Concussion

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Parents play a major role in identifying the effects of concussions in their daughters and sons, helping them manage symptoms, and supporting their recovery.

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Empowering Your Kids to Speak up About Concussions in Youth Sports

April 17, 2017
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There are many reasons why kids do not report concussions. They must be educated about brain injuries, including concussions. They must be empowered to report to an adult any symptoms after a blow to the head, neck, or body that causes neurological symptoms (like dizziness, headache, or confusion). Removal from the sport or activity followed by evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider should be expedited.

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Be a Parent Advocate for Children and Youth Sports Concussions

April 27, 2017
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Parents must communicate with the school after their son or daughter has a concussion to make sure that there are accommodations if needed during recovery.

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Talk to Your Kids About the Concussion Risk of Collision Sports

April 12, 2017
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Children and adolescents must understand that if they have any symptoms after a blow or jolt to the head or neck they must stop immediately and get help from an adult.

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Concussion in Young Children: What You Need to Know

July 30, 2017
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An early childhood teacher talks with Dr. Sandel about about concussion in young children. What causes it? What do we need to look for? And how can we help during the recovery process?

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Top Causes of Concussion in Children and Adolescents

September 29, 2022
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When we think of “youth” and “concussion,” the first thing that likely comes to mind is a teenager engaging in a high-risk activity such as football, soccer, or snowboarding. But not all youth brain injury results from these risky activities. Of the millions of concussions reported by emergency rooms every year, figures put concussions related to sports and recreation at just 30% – so 70% of concussions result from other causes.

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