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Concussion

Louise represented in the hurling team in the world championship in Dublin this year gives us her insight about concussion.

concussion

A hot topic at present in the media/ world front as more and more concussions especially in playing sport are coming to the fore and evidence & management/ views are changing to not take this matter lightly. As a sufferer of a few concussions in the past I know exactly how it can affect you in the long run if not treated effectively and respectfully when first occurs. After all your brain is the most important part of your body, it is the control centre for everything else. Treat it with respect.

So what is a Concussion or Acquired Brain Injury (ABI), it is a temporary unconsciousness or confusion & other symptoms caused by a blow to the head.

Another definition is a brain injury and is defined as a complex physiological process affecting the brain, induced by biomechanical forces.

Maybe caused by direct or indirect blow to the head/ face/ neck or body causing an impulsive force transmitted through to the head.

Symptoms including

  • Short period of unconsciousness
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness
  • Amnesia/ Loss of memory
  • Persistent headaches
  • Nausea/ vomiting
  • Blurred vision
  • Sensitivity to light and noise
  • Feeling foggy/heaviness in the head
  • Neck pain
  • Fatigue/ low energy

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Anyone with a suspected Concussion should immediately be removed from play in sport, and should not return to activity until assessed fully by a medical professional. They should not be left alone and should not drive/operate any machinery. A SCAT2 or 3 (Sports Concussion Assessment Tool) form should be carried out immediately post-concussion and furthermore to assess recovery to return to sport adequately.

 

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Managed return to work/ school and or sport should be approached with a professional practitioner and not to be rushed back into a hectic daily lifestyle. Take rests periods regularly and limit your exertion. Cognitive function as well as the physical function should be assessed during return to activities. Studies are now coming to the forefront that individuals who continue to play on after receiving a concussion, DOUBLE the recovery time.

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Personally a sufferer of post-concussion syndrome/ injury I know firsthand how individuals can feel and the affects it can have on a person’s whole life. Protect your head wear a helmet in sport such as cycling, snow sports etc. For any further assistance with concussions please contact the Total Physiocare for an appointment!

Blog by Louise Holland (Physiotherapist)

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