A concussion is caused by a direct blow to the head, face, or neck or by a force to the body that is transmitted up into the head. Concussions affect millions of athletes per year and it is thought that they are one of the most under reported types of injuries in youth. While many concussions may resolve spontaneously, it it still important to seek a medical screening to rule out any related impairments. Other concussions may take longer to resolve, involve lingering symptoms, and require rehabilitative treatment.
Some of the common signs of concussion include, but are not limited to:
Confusion
Tiredness and/or sleep disruptions
Headache and/or light sensitivity
Personality changes
Unsteadiness during physical activities
Starfish Therapies offers concussion screening for children of all ages as well as subsequent rehabilitation should the need be indicated. One of the concussion-specific forms of assessment we provide is the SCAT3 and Child SCAT3, which helps to establish the presence of a concussion. Pre-season baselines can also be established using this tool, and can be particularly beneficial for youth participating in contact sports.
Sports that have a high rate of concussions are:
Football
Soccer
Basketball
Lacrosse
Cheerleading
If your child does have a concussion, physical therapy can help with Return to Learn and Return to Play. Please contact us at 650-638-9142 or admin@starfishtherapies.com to find out how we can help your child.
In addition, vestibular system deficits are often seen following concussion, and are important to address to prior to your child fully returning to their sport or activity.
Please call for a free consultation or visit to our clinic »