Concussion Sheet for Parents

This information sheet outlines the guidelines and the steps that should be followed before your child returns to training. It should be read in conjunction with the SANFL Juniors Concussion Policy.

Concussion can have a serious effect on a young, developing brain. Recovery from sports concussion in players under 18 years of age can take up to four weeks – this is significantly longer than the expected 7-10 day recovery in adults. The Australian Institute of Sport and the Australian Medical Association protocol states that a concussed junior player should not engage in competitive physical activity for at least two weeks after their symptoms have resolved.

In the recovery phase following a concussion, children may complain of:

 Fatigue, Sensitivity to light & noise, Difficulty concentrating, Feeling “slowed down”, Memory impairment,  Irritable behavior, Headache, Feeling Sleepy

Recommended treatment for concussion. “If in doubt, sit them out!”

  • You should have your child assessed by a medical doctor as soon as possible to evaluate the extent of the concussion and formulate a plan for treatment.

  • Once a child has been diagnosed with a concussion, he/she generally requires 2-3 days of rest from cognitive (thinking, concentration and memory) and physical tasks. Let the school know your child has had a concussion, and may need a short period of time away.

  • The child should avoid computers, video games and TV if these make symptoms worse.

  • The child should not be given any medications, including pain killers, unless prescribed by a medical doctor.

  • The child should not go back to school until the symptoms are improving.

  • The child should not go back to sport, PE or training until a doctor gives permission. Ideally a medical clearance should be obtained prior to resuming training and playing.

Treatment recommended for any ongoing symptoms

If concussion symptoms are continuing for greater than four weeks, it is recommended that you seek advice from a Sports Doctor that is specifically trained in the management of concussion. Suggested Drs in Adelaide include:

Dr Steve Kennett or Dr Marc Cesana:
Wakefield Sports Clinic
270 Wakefield St, Adelaide SA 5000
Phone: (08) 8232 5833
Weekend Sports Injury Clinic : 1800 888925

Glenelg Sports Medicine:
712 Anzac Highway, Glenelg SA 5045
Phone: (08) 8295 1294

Cart (0)