At North West Physio Lutwyche, we believe in creating a safer playing environment for your little champions. Today, we’ll shed light on how to protect your child from a concussion and what can be done to minimise the risks.
What is a Concussion and What Causes it?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a direct impact to the head or a sudden acceleration-deceleration movement. Falling, being hit, or being in an accident are common causes. Children playing sports like football are often at risk due to the physical nature of these activities.
Recognising Concussion Symptoms in Children
Identifying the symptoms of a concussion early can make a huge difference in recovery.
Signs include:
- headaches
- vomiting
- dizziness
- low energy
- vision problems
- sensitivity to light or noise
- sleeping issues
If your child displays any of these symptoms following a head injury, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Early intervention is key in mitigating both short and long-term effects of a concussion.
In the short term, a concussion can cause headaches, nausea, and sleep problems.
Long-term effects could include aggression, attention and hyperactivity issues, difficulty with problem-solving, memory loss, delayed learning, and anxiety or depression.
Physiotherapy can play a pivotal role in managing these effects. Physiotherapists at North West Physio Lutwyche can assess your child’s condition and implement appropriate treatment plans.
The Role of Rest and Physiotherapy in Recovery
Rest, both physical and cognitive, is essential in the recovery process. Our physiotherapists can guide you on the right balance between rest and gradual return to activities, thus allowing the brain to heal effectively without causing further inflammation or trauma.
How to Protect Your Child from a Concussion
Physiotherapy-based prevention strategies are effective ways to reduce the risk of concussion. These include balance training, strengthening the neck muscles, and teaching proper form when playing sports.
Moreover, parents, teachers, and coaches can create a supportive environment for concussion prevention and management. This includes adhering to safety guidelines, especially in sports and recreational activities, and using proper safety gear.
Steps for Parents to Ensure Proper Care
If your child experiences a concussion, you should seek immediate medical attention if severe symptoms are present. For mild symptoms, rest from physical and mental activities and schedule an appointment with us at North West Physio Lutwyche.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how to protect your child from a concussion is an essential part of ensuring their long-term health. If you want to learn more or need a tailored plan for your child, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with us at North West Physio Lutwyche. Our experienced physiotherapists are here to help!
