Concussions in Organized Sports

A concussion is a common head injury that results from a direct or indirect blow to the head. Damage is caused by a sudden shifting of the brain within the skull. This shifting can cause the brain to knock against the skull causing bruising.

A Statistics Canada survey found that there are approximately 30,000 concussions reported annually among the 12 to 19 year old age group. Sixty-six percent of these concussions resulted from engaging in a sporting activity. Sadly, these numbers are likely under representing the number of concussions actually occurring in youth in organized sports.

Concussions have been referred to as the “silent epidemic” because symptoms may not be immediately recognizable. Your child may not want anyone to know that he or she is hurt due to embarrassment. However, you can keep your eye out for post-concussion symptoms, such as headaches, dizziness, loss of vision, ringing in the ears, stomach ache/nausea, sleeping difficulties, poor balance, confusion, slow response, and/or loss of consciousness.

If you have your child enrolled in organized sports this fall, please remain mindful of the risk of a concussion injury. Concussions are most commonly related to contact sports, such as hockey or football; however, all sports have some level of risk. Keep your kids safe and use protective equipment whenever possible, such as helmets, mouth guards, and neck protectors. It is also important to have open communication with your child and your child’s coaching staff.  

By Liane Shepley