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In the US, over 173K people were treated for concussion in the past year. In Georgia alone last year, Scottish Rite hospital treated over 1400 kids for concussion. A concussion is a violent shaking of the brain or blow to the head and it is the most common traumatic brain injury. Earlier this year, GA joined over 43 other states by enacting into law a bill addressing the issue of concussions in youth sports, called “The Return to Play Act of 2013.” Collision sports and recreation is a primary area where concussions can occur. There is no quick, definitive test for concussion and many go undiagnosed or untreated. Less than 10% of concussions occur with a loss of consciousness. Symptoms can occur weeks and days after the triggering event that causes a concussion.

Symptoms can include headache, weakness, numbness, slurred speech, amnesia, sleep disturbances, changes in cognitive function, irritability, etc. Recovery from concussion varies widely and there can be long term effects of concussion, especially repeated concussion. Treatment can include physical and cognitive rest, physical and occupational therapy, cognitive therapy. The new law focuses on baseline assessment, prevention, information on risk to parents, on the field assessment and medical clearance requirements prior to returning to play. Join us in this segment to learn about concussion, the new Georgia law, and what parents, coaches and players need to know. Listeners can also find more information at: www.cdc.gov/concussion, www.concussiontreatment.com and www.kidsandpros.com.

 

Dr. Angela Yi

• Ph. D in Psychology with the Sports Concussion Institute in Los Angeles

 

Diane King, CTC, RD

• GA Concussion Coalition and President, GA Athletic Trainer Association

 

Buddy Curry

• Master Trainer with Kids and Pro’s, former Atlanta Falcon pro football player
• Advocate for passage of GA HB 284 “Return to Play” concussion legislation