A concussion is an brain injury caused by any blow to the head, face or neck, or somewhere else on the body which results in a sudden jarring of the head. A concussion can’t be seen on routine x-rays, CT scans or MRIs.
You don’t have to lose consciousness to have a concussion. Signs and symptoms may be immediate or delayed for a period of time, and sometimes symptoms can be subtle and may not be noticed. Without identification and proper management, a concussion can result in permanent or severe brain damage.
Signs and symptoms of a concussion often last for 7 to 10 days or may last longer, even weeks or
months. The most important initial treatment for a concussion is both physical and mental rest. That means no exercising, bike riding, playing video games, reading or working on the computer.
All Ontario school of boards have a comprehensive concussion policy that requires assessment and approval from a healthcare provider to return to school and physical activity.
Ontario Ministry of Education Policy/Program Memorandum No.158
Signs and symptoms
Concussion management
Information, guidelines and resources for parents, educators, coaches and athletes and healthcare providers:
- Parachute
- Ontario Ministry of Health And Long-Term Care - Concussions
- Ontario Neurotrauma Foundation
- Concussion Awareness Training Tool - Medical professionals
- Ontario Injury Prevention Compass – Concussions in Ontario
- CanChild – Centre for Child Disability Research, McMaster University
- TD Think First for Kids Curriculum Material for Elementary Teachers - Parachute