Concussion is a topical subject, discussed frequently in the media. The AFL community have even implemented “smart” technologically advanced mouthguards to monitor the frequency of head knocks and whiplash related forces moving forward.
But what is concussion?
Concussion is classified as a mild traumatic brain injury. There can be structural changes to the brain, disruption of transmission between the neurons and changes in blood flow to some parts of the brain. Depending on the force and impact of the injury, concussion can impact people to varying degrees.
Individuals can be lucky and may only experience mild symptoms that can last up to a week, including:
Headache
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Nausea
However, others may not be as fortunate and their symptoms can last longer.
Symptoms that last for 3 months or more develop into Post Concussion Syndrome which affects daily life. Symptoms can include:
Memory difficulty
Cognitive processing difficulty
Vestibular issues
Concentration difficulties
Further second-impact syndrome can also occur when a concussed person returns to sport or activities before complete recovery and sustains a second brain injury. Repeated concussions may cause further delayed post-traumatic brain degeneration, leading to dementia and movement disorders similar to Parkinson diseases.
As we have seen in the cases of famous footballers, Danny Frawley and Shane Tuck, the physiological repercussions of multiple concussions can accumulate and impact individuals later on in life. Concussions affect everyone differently even when the same forces are applied and cannot be classed equally.
Multiple head traumas can lead to more serious conditions such as Chronic Encephalopathy (a neurodegenerative disease with symptoms including behavioural, mood, and thought initiating concerns which can only be diagnosed after death through brain tissue analysis). Further, it is imperative that Brain injury is taken seriously.
There are many tools available for both athletes in the sporting setting as well for those suffering concussions within the community with a far greater awareness now of the associated risks. One assessment tool that is widely used within the sporting setting and available online is the SCAT5.
Having endured and experienced concussion myself, I have experienced the long and arduous process of rehabilitation. Complications such as autonomic issues can arise, leading to difficulty with exercise tolerance. Thus, it is important to have a Physiotherapist help guide your recovery and provide advice on returning back to work or playing your sport.
If you don't feel ready to get back on the field or have any lingering symptoms you probably aren't ready to play. We only get one brain, we must ensure we take care of it!
Written by Jemima Spike: Pilates Instructor and Physiotherapist UPG Studio
References:
Laurie M. Ryan & Deborah L. Warden (2003) Post concussion syndrome, International Review of Psychiatry, 15:4, 310-316
Tator, C. H. (2013). Concussions and their consequences: current diagnosis, management and prevention. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 185, 11, 975.