The Heads-up on Sport Concussion

Gary Soloman a neuropsychologist with more than twenty years experience of treating patients with head injuries. He is a member of the International Neuropsychological Society, the Academy of Neuropsychology and the American Neuropsychiatric Association. Karen Johnstone is director of the concussion programme at McGill Sport Medicine Centre and a neurosurgeon with the Montreal General Hospital and Neurological Hospitals in Montreal, Quebec. She also serves as a neurosurgeon and consultant to various sporting leagues and federations. Mark Lovell is assistant professor of orthopaedics at the University of Pittsburgh, where he is also Director of their Sports Medicine Concussion Programme. He acts as a neuropsychological consultant for various organisations, including the International Olympic Committee.

Chapter 1. Sport Concussion: Just the Facts-Cast of Characters in Sport Concussion -The Brain-What Is a Concussion? -Are Head Injuries in Sports Really a Problem?-Second-Impact Syndrome-Increased Awareness for Sport Concussion-How Many Athletes Get Concussions?-Research DigestChapter 2. Brain Processes and Symptoms-What Happens in the Brain During a Concussion?-What Are the Typical Symptoms of Concussion?-What Is the Role of Loss of Consciousness in Sport Concussion?Chapter 3. Assessment and Evaluation-Clinical History-Sideline-Assessment Strategies-Balance Testing-Neuroimaging Techniques-Neuropsychological Testing-Role of Grading Scales in Assessment-How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Concussion?-Research DigestChapter 4. Treatment and Rehabilitation-Medical Treatments-Nonmedical Management and Rehabilitation -Research DigestChapter 5. Concussion in Professional Sports-Concussion in the National Football League-Concussion in the National Hockey League-Concussion in Boxing-Concussion in Soccer-Research DigestChapter 6. Current Trends, Research, and the Future-What Are Professional Organizations Doing About Concussion?-What Are the Long-Term Effects of Concussion?-Do Helmets Help?-What Can We Do About Concussion?-New Research and the Future-Research DigestAppendix A: Essential Information for Athletes, Parents, and Coaches-Signs and Symptoms-Assessment, Evaluation, and Treatment-Sport-Specific Concerns-Long-Term Effects-Return to Play-Educating Athletes About ConcussionAppendix B: Resources ReferencesAbout the Author