Over 150,000 children sustain a sport and recreation-related concussion in the United States each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Depending on the severity of the accident or collision, the brain is shook inside the skull, causing severe damage. When the brain is confronted with particular amount of force, like sudden falls or hits to the head, it is referred to as a concussion. Symptoms can range from minor or significant, and can include insomnia, mood swings, headaches, and diminished coordination.
Concussions Among Children
One of the benefits of being young is that children can learn how to protect themselves from the possibility of a concussion. With the support of their parents and coaches, children can be educated about the short and long-term consequences of concussions and how they can minimize their chances of sustaining one.
Be Proactive
To kick-start a conversation around physical health and the dangers associated with head injuries, try taking your child athlete to your family doctor or a chiropractor at AICA Atlanta for a preseason physical. The better your child is at recognizing the symptoms associated with a concussion in themselves or in another athlete, the better they will be at letting an adult know that they need immediate treatment.
Encourage Communication
Our Atlanta Chiropractors recommend that child athletes talk to each other about their experiences and what they feel after they have been hit by another player or fall down. Talking to each other and learning how each athlete reacts is helpful for being able to detect and treat a concussion as soon as it appears.
Practice Positive Sportsmanship
Talk to your children about being respectful to other athletes and the value of athleticism over aggressiveness. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that coaches and parents offer instructions in proper tackling techniques to reduce the risk of players sustaining head injuries. The AAP also recommends that coaches and parents teach their child athletes various neck strengthening techniques to prevent the risk of brain damage.
Wear Protective Equipment
If your child plays a sport like football, wearing appropriate protective equipment is imperative. Although helmets are not guaranteed to prevent concussions, they are helpful for absorbing the brunt of a significant blow.
Contact AICA Atlanta For Help
There is a world of benefits associated with children participating in group activities and sports programs. Understanding what preventative steps you can take to reduce the chances of your child sustaining a concussion will help protect them if or when they are confronted with a ball to the head, a head-first tackle, or a home-plate collision. You can learn more great preventative tips or schedule a physical by dialing (404) 889-8828. Our clinic is open Monday through Sunday for your convenience.