Have you ever wondered how crucial it is to address a concussion in a football player? Concussions are one of the most common yet overlooked injuries in the sport, and they can have serious long-term effects if not treated properly.
With the rising awareness of head injuries in contact sports, particularly football, teams and coaches face an increased responsibility to ensure the safety of their players. Despite this, many athletes make a premature return to the game or fail to follow proper rehabilitation protocols, risking further injury and complications.
Understanding the appropriate physiotherapy protocols for concussion injuries is vital—not just for recovery but for preserving the player’s health and performance.
From assessment to rehabilitation exercises, taking a comprehensive approach can ensure that athletes return to the field safely and effectively.
What is a concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can occur from a direct blow to the head or a violent jolt to the head and neck, which leads to a disruption of normal brain function. Memory, emotions, and cognitive function are all negatively affected by concussions.
Less than 10% of concussions cause loss of consciousness, also known as being “knocked out,” which is not required to diagnose a concussion.
Nonetheless, if someone loses consciousness as a result of a head injury, it may indicate a potential concussion or a more serious traumatic brain injury, depending on the length of time of lost consciousness.
It is critical to take quick action to remove any player suspected of having a concussion off the field of play. They should be evaluated by a trained healthcare professional within 24 hours of the injury.
This fast screening provides appropriate medical treatment and enables effective identification and management of a possible concussion.
In football, these injuries are common, and proper management, including physiotherapy, is crucial for a safe and timely return to activities.
Common symptoms and signs of concussion
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
- Confusion
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Mood changes (irritability, sadness, anxiety)
What is the concussion protocol for football?
Concussion protocols in football vary slightly between different leagues and organisations, but they generally follow a similar framework. Here’s a general overview of the steps involved:
1. Immediate response
- Removal from play: If a concussion is suspected, the player must be immediately removed from the game and have a clinical assessment by a medical professional for diagnosis of concussion.
- Initial evaluation: A medical professional will conduct a physical and cognitive evaluation to assess the severity of the injury.
- Rest and observation: The player is typically kept under observation for a while to monitor their symptoms.
2. Return-to-play protocol
The return-to-play process is gradual and involves a series of steps to ensure the player’s safety and complete recovery from concussion. Here’s a common approach:
- No activity: The player must rest completely, avoiding physical activity and cognitive exertion.
- Light aerobic exercise: Once concussive symptoms have subsided, the player can gradually introduce light aerobic activities like walking or stationary cycling.
- Sport-specific exercise: The player can progress to sport-specific exercises, such as running and agility drills, without contact.
- Non-contact drills: The player can participate in non-contact drills with other players, focusing on skill development and coordination.
- Contact drills: Once cleared by a medical professional, the player can gradually reintroduce contact drills.
- Return to play: The player can return to full practice and competition only after sport-related concussion assessments, receiving medical clearance and completing all stages of the protocol without experiencing any symptoms.
The role of physiotherapy in concussion recovery
Physiotherapy for football plays a vital role in the management of concussion injuries. A qualified physiotherapist can help with:
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Symptom management
- Pain management: Physiotherapists can use techniques like manual therapy to alleviate headaches and neck pain.
- Dizziness and balance issues: Vestibular rehabilitation exercises can help improve balance and reduce dizziness.
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Gradual return to play protocol
- Cardiovascular fitness: Physiotherapists can design gradual exercise programs to improve cardiovascular fitness without exacerbating concussive symptoms.
- Strength and conditioning: Once symptoms have resolved, strength and conditioning exercises can help restore physical performance.
- Cognitive-physical dual-tasking: This involves performing physical tasks while simultaneously engaging in cognitive activities to challenge the brain.
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Neck strengthening
- A strong neck can help protect the brain from rotational forces, reducing the risk of future concussive injury.
- Physiotherapists can prescribe specific neck strengthening exercises to improve muscle strength and endurance.
Final thoughts
It’s important to note that concussion protocols are constantly evolving as medical knowledge and understanding of brain injuries improve.
Always consult with a healthcare professional for specific guidance and advice regarding the treatment of concussion and physiotherapy for football.
Book an appointment with one of our experienced physiologists today for a comprehensive assessment and customised treatment plan.
