ATI Sports Medicine: Adhering to Latest Guidelines on Concussion Management
This week, the American Academy of Neurology released new guidelines for managing concussions in athletes, with special attention being paid to high school age and younger athletes.
In year’s past, the severity of concussions were assessed and given a grade. The assigned grade was used to help determine when a player may return to activity. New guidelines stress the need for immediate removal from play and individualized care and management of athletes based on symptoms, with an emphasis on more conservative management for younger athletes.
“ATI’s Sports Medicine department reviews concussion evaluation and management with its athletic trainers several times each year to stay abreast of the latest research and recommendations,” said Katie Varnado, Midwest Director of Sports Medicine, ATI Physical Therapy. “We consult with physicians who specialize in this area, pay close attention to the information being released from groups like the American Academy of Neurology, as well as the Concussion Consensus Statement, published by the International Consensus Conferences on Concussion in Sport.” The most recent Concussion Consensus Statement was just released last month.
“Our athletic trainers are actively practicing the recommendations given by the American Academy of Neurology’s new guidelines on concussions management,” said Varnado. “All athletes under the care of ATI Sports Medicine are assessed and managed on a case-by-case basis. Because concussion symptoms and recovery time differ between athletes, we pay special attention to symptoms and follow a graduated return to play after the athlete is symptom free.”
Additionally, ATI Sports Medicine adheres to the concussion laws in its respective states, which require immediate removal of the athlete suspected of having a concussion and written clearance from a licensed medical professional before returning to activity.
If you have questions on the symptoms, management and rehabilitation following a concussion, visit our Ask The Athletic Trainer page.