"For a printable version of these concussion guidelines click here." "For a printable French version of these concussion guidelines click here." What is a Concussion? Simply put, a concussion is an injury to the brain that can’t be seen on an X-ray or CT scan. The brain is a complex organ, controlling many body functions. A concussion can affect the way you think, what you remember, and how you feel. Now...and in the future! Causes of Concussions Concussion can be caused by a direct or indirect hit to your body, not just your head, face or neck. Any bodycheck that causes a sudden jarring of your head can result in a concussion. Dealing with Concussion The signs and symptoms of concussion usually appear right after the injury. They can last anywhere from 7 to 10 days or up to 3 weeks depending on how old you are. Everyone recovers from a concussion differently. Sometimes, it can take up to 3 months. And remember! The more concussions you have, the longer it takes to get better! What to do…? If you think you’ve suffered a concussion you should stop playing immediately. You should be closely watched for symptoms, and you should get to a doctor as soon as possible. If you happen to black out, someone should call the paramedics and get you to a hospital by ambulance right away. If at all possible, consult with a doctor who has experience with concussions. Treating Concussion The best treatment is REST! This means no training, no playing, no exertion (especially with weights). Don’t even use a computer. For how long? Until you are completely symptom-free. Only then, can you gradually return to activity. Steps to Recovery and Return to Play A concussion is serious, but you can recover if the proper guidelines are followed. Remember, the key is REST! It is very important that you don’t go back to practice or play if you are still showing any concussion symptoms or signs. Before returning to any physical activity, follow these steps in order. 1. No activity, complete rest. Once back to normal and cleared by a doctor, go to the next step. 2. Light exercise such as walking or stationary cycling, for 10-15 minutes. 3. Sport-specific activity (e.g., skating), for 20-30 minutes. 4. Practice puck-handling drills, shooting drills, and other activities with NO CONTACT (i.e. no checking). 5. Practice with body contact, once cleared by a doctor. 6. Game play. Remember: Recovery is measured in steps, NOT DAYS. Recovery is different for everybody and it takes time to make progress through each step. If any symptoms return, like a headache or nausea, stop all activity, tell someone and rest for 24 hours. Seek medical attention and only return to physical activity with a doctor’s permission. If you rush your recovery, you risk suffering another concussion. It could be worse, and last much longer. Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion While there are many symptoms of a concussion, it can also be a “hidden” injury that is difficult to detect. You may not even know you have suffered a concussion. You may not want anyone to know you are hurt. Thinking problems: o Don’t know time, date, place, score in game, opposing team, etc. o General confusion o Can’t remember what happened before or after injury o Loss of consciousness Physical complaints: o Headache o Dizziness o Feel dazed (e.g., like in a fog) o Feel rattled or stunned (e.g. “bell rung”) o See stars, flashing lights, double or blurry o Loss of vision o Ringing in the ears o Stomach ache, pain and/or nausea o Difficulty sleeping, sleeping less or more than usual Other Problems: o Poor coordination, balance o Blank stare, glassy-eyed o Vomiting o Slurred speech o Slow responses to questions, directions o Easily distracted o Poor concentration o Strange or inappropriate emotions (e.g., laughing, crying, anger) o Not playing well