Concussion Management

At Harbin Clinic Orthopedics we have developed the most comprehensive Sports Concussion Management program in Northwest Georgia to appropriately evaluate, manage, and safely return athletes to sports who have suffered a sports related concussion.  We have sports medicine physicians, neurologists, athletic trainers, and nurses who specialize in the management of sports concussions. We utilize the most current practices, guidelines, and computerized neurocognitive testing to treat our athletes.

WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?

A concussion is a brain injury that is caused by a blow to the head or body. It may occur from contact with another player, hitting a hard surface such as the ground, being hit by a piece of equipment such as a bat or ball, or a motor vehicle accident. A concussion can change the way the brain normally works. It can range from mild to severe and presents itself differently for each athlete. A concussion can happen even if an athlete does not lose consciousness.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A CONCUSSION?

You can’t see a concussion, but you may notice some of the symptoms right away. Other symptoms can show up hours or days after the injury.

Concussion symptoms may include:

HOW DO YOU RECOVER FROM A CONCUSSION?

Your brain needs time to heal. Until you completely recover from your concussion, you will be held from all athletic activity. A concussion usually resolves in 2-3 weeks. Physical exercise or activities that involve a lot of concentration, such as studying, working on the computer, or playing video games may cause concussion symptoms (such as headache or tiredness) to reappear or worsen. While your brain is still healing, you are much more likely to have a repeat concussion. In rare cases, repeat concussions can cause permanent brain damage, and even death. Severe brain injury can change your whole life. Before returning to your sport, you must be evaluated by a physician who specializes in the treatment of concussions and be medically cleared for return.

Concussion Education Resources

Harbin Clinic is pleased to offer educational resources related to sports concussions for coaches and parents as well as provide the most cutting edge concussion testing and management available anywhere in the United States.

Parents, coaches, athletes, officials, school administrators, school nurses and teachers should all know how to recognize a concussion and have an action plan in place. One of the best ways to learn about concussions is to explore the educational material and take the online course provided here.

CDC’s Heads Up Concussion Training for Coaches and Medical Providers

Coaches and parents of young people who participate in sports are encouraged to visit the link below to receive information and training on concussions. The site includes an online course designed for coaches to help them recognize concussion injuries. Parents of athletes are also encouraged to take the course.