Concussion Information for Parents and Families

What is a Concussion? 

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump or blow to the head. Even a “ding,” “getting your bell rung,” or what like a mild bump can be serious. 

You can’t see a concussion, but the signs and symptoms of concussion can show up right after the injury – or may not show up until days or weeks later. If your child reports any symptoms of a concussion, or if you notice them yourself, seek medical attention right away. 

What are the signs and symptoms of concussion? 

If your child has experienced a bump or blow to the head, look for any of the following signs and symptoms. 

Symptoms your child may report: 

• Headache or “pressure” in head 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Balance problems or dizziness 
• Double or blurry vision 
• Sensitivity to light 
• Sensitivity to noise 
• Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy 
• Concentration or memory problems 
• Confusion 
• Just not “feeling right” or is “feeling down” 

Signs observed by parents/guardians: 

• Appears dazed or stunned 
• Is confused about assignment or position 
• Forgets an instruction 
• Is unsure of game, score, or opponent 
• Moves clumsily 
• Answers questions slowly 
• Loses consciousness (even briefly) 
• Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes 

Symptoms of concussion usually fall into four categories:

Sports-Related Concussion Program 

The Sports-Related Concussion Program at the Cooper University Health Care provides athletes with expert concussion diagnosis and treatment. A multidisciplinary team of orthopaedic, neurological, and pediatric experts ensures a full range of specialized services in diagnosing, treating, and managing concussion, including: 

• ImPACT® testing (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing): A computer-based neurocognitive test used to assess an athlete’s cognitive ability before and after an injury. This tool used by doctors, psychologists, athletic trainers, and other licensed healthcare professionals to determine an athlete's ability to return to play after suffering a concussion. The test helps evaluate recovery but should not be used alone for diagnosis or management. 
• Neuropsychological testing: Used to help diagnose neurological conditions in patients with longer recovery times after a concussion. 
• Vestibular rehabilitation: A specialized physical therapy for vertigo, dizziness, motion sensitivity, imbalance, and neurological injuries. Vestibular therapy treatment is used for individuals suffering from post-concussion syndrome.  

Return-to-Play Guidelines 

Our sports medicine physicians will create a safe and progressive return-to-play program once an athlete: 

• Is no longer showing symptoms 
• Passes physical and neurological exams 
• Returns to baseline ImPACT® scores (if available) 

Our physicians will collaborate with an athlete, their parents, coaches, and athletic trainers to help ensure a safe return to all athletic activities. Prevention of recurrent head injuries is stressed through education by our sports medicine specialists. 

Concussion Prevention* 

The following are some steps you can take to help reduce the risk of concussions in children. 

• Car and booster seats: Use age- and size-appropriate seats that are properly installed. 
• Helmets: Make sure your child always wears the right helmet for their activity and that it fits properly. Helmets reduce the risk of a serious brain injury or skull fracture but do not prevent concussions.  
• Stair gates: Install gates at the top and bottom of stairs to prevent serious falls in infants and toddlers. 
• Soft surfaces: Choose playgrounds with soft mulch or sand, not grass or dirt. 
• Supervision: Closely monitor your child’s participation in sports programs. 

Schedule an Appointment 

If you think your child may have a concussion or is experiencing symptoms, don’t wait. 
To schedule an evaluation with a specialist at Cooper’s Sports-Related Concussion Program, call 800.8.COOPER (800.826.6737).