Brain Awareness Week: Understanding Sport-Related Concussions

Brain Awareness Week is a time to recognize the importance of brain health and education, particularly when it comes to sports-related concussions. As athletes push their limits on the field, court, and track, understanding the risks, symptoms, and proper management of concussions is critical for their long-term well-being. At WaveOn Health, we’re committed to raising awareness about brain injuries and promoting best practices to keep athletes safe.

What is a Concussion?

The National Athletic Trainers' Association defines a concussion as a “trauma-induced alteration in mental status that may or may not involve loss of consciousness.” This can be caused by some blow to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move quickly back and forth. Think like shaking an egg.

While concussions are often considered "invisible injuries" because they don’t show up on standard imaging tests, their effects can be significant.

Symptoms may include:

• Headaches

• Dizziness

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Confusion

• Memory issues

• Trouble concentrating

• Irritability or easily angered

• Feeling more emotional

• Sensitivity to light and noise

• Sleeping more or less than usual

• Trouble falling asleep

Recognizing these signs early is crucial to prevent further damage and ensure a full recovery. Concussion signs and symptoms can appear immediately or not be noticed until days or weeks after the injury.

The Impact of Concussions in Sports

Concussions are a serious concern in athletics at all levels, from youth sports to professional leagues. Athletes in contact sports such as football, soccer, hockey, and basketball are particularly at risk. Education, prevention, and proper return-to-play protocols are essential to protecting athletes’ health.

Helmets do not prevent concussions and should not be used as a weapon during practices and competitions. They are designed to avoid skull fractures in addition to bruises or lacerations to the head or face.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has an education program called HEADS UP that provides excellent education and training for parents, athletes, coaches, and healthcare providers. Be sure to check it out for more information and to share it with your school administrators, team organizers, and coaches.

Prevention and Management Strategies

The best approach to concussions is prevention and early intervention. Coaches, athletic trainers, and athletes should be well-versed in concussion protocols, which include:

• Encouraging proper technique and adherence to safety rules.

• Wearing appropriate protective gear.

• Recognizing symptoms and removing athletes from play immediately after a suspected concussion.

• Following a step-by-step return-to-play protocol guided by a healthcare professional.

At WaveOn Health, we advocate for better concussion awareness, education, and access to athletic trainers who can assess and manage these injuries properly. Athletes should never feel pressured to return to play before they are fully recovered, as doing so increases the risk of further brain injury.

The CDC has additional information about what to expect after a suspected concussion.

Protecting the Future of Athletes

Brain health should be a top priority for every athlete, coach, and parent. By raising awareness about concussions and ensuring proper care, we can help reduce the risk of long-term brain injuries and keep sports safe for all participants. During Brain Awareness Week, let’s commit to learning more, advocating for better care, and supporting athletes in their recovery.

WaveOn Health is dedicated to providing the resources and expert support needed to keep athletes safe both on and off the field. Join us in spreading awareness about concussions and brain health—because protecting the brain means protecting the future.

If you are worried that you may have sustained a concussion, schedule an appointment with a virtual athletic trainer for an assessment.

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