How to Deal with Children who Suffer Concussions
Concussions have become an increasingly popular topic in the news. Stories about professional football and hockey stars missing games due to concussions have raised general awareness about the potential seriousness of even a minor blow to the head.
Concussions can be even more concerning when they are suffered by children. Recently, a private school in Toronto developed a new protocol to help their students return to sports and the classroom after a concussion. This protocol contains six graduated levels that must be met before the child returns fully to school or athletic activities. Doctors, teachers, coaches, and the injured students all work together on achieving these levels. A student must be symptom free for at least a week before he can progress on to the next level.
The developers of these programs should be applauded. Too often people who have suffered concussions rush back to their pre-concussion activities too soon. Engaging in activities before one is ready can often lead to set backs and could even lead to a second concussion.
If your child has suffered a concussion, or brain injury, it is important to consult with appropriate specialists before your child returns to school or sports. If that injury was suffered due to someone else’s negligence and the injury is negatively impacting your child’s future it is important to also consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer.