Sports Medicine
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury. Concussions are caused by a bump or blow to the head. Even a “ding,” “getting your bell rung,” or what seems to be a mild bump or blow to the head can be serious. You can’t see a concussion. Signs and symptoms of concussion can show up right after the injury or may not appear or be noticed until days or weeks after the injury. If your child reports any symptoms of concussion, or if you notice the symptoms yourself, seek medical attention right away. PRJUSD follows the CIF protocol for return to play for any athlete who has suffered a concussion.
What is ImPACT?
ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) is the most scientifically validated computerized neurocognitive test used by more than 7,400 high schools and 1,000 colleges and universities to help evaluate and manage suspected concussions. Since 2006, over 7.5 million individuals have taken the ImPACT test.
ImPACT comes in two forms:
- Baseline Test – Administered by a physician, nurse, athletic trainer, athletic director, or coach before the start of a sport season, school year, or other activity. Baseline scores are collected and stored on our HIPAA compliant server. ImPACT recommends re-administering the baseline test every two years.
- Post-Injury Test – Administered by a licensed healthcare provider when a concussion is suspected. Test results are compared to baseline scores and/or normative data scores as part of a healthcare provider's assessment of the injury. Multiple post-injury tests may be given to an individual during the course of treatment and rehabilitation.
For more information on Impact Testing click below:
Heat Illness
Exercise produces heat within the body and can increase an athlete’s body temperature. Add to this a hot or humid day and any barriers to heat loss such as padding and equipment, and the temperature of the individual can become dangerously high. There are several steps which can be taken to prevent heat illness from occurring:
For Heat Illness Information Click Below:
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) in Student-Athletes
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is not a heart attack. It’s an abnormality in the heart’s electrical system that abruptly stops the heartbeat. It's caused by an undetected congenital or genetic heart condition.
For Resources Click Here:
Hydration
Adequate hydration is necessary for all student-athletes, especially to prevent heat illness from occurring. Here are the suggested steps to take for proper hydration: