Concussion Basics
This is a temporary brain injury caused by a blow to the head or body, often leading to a variety of symptoms.
a concussion
This common symptom of a concussion includes headache, dizziness, or lightheadedness after a blow to the head.
A Headache
This is the general term for rest and recovery following a concussion, allowing the brain to heal.
physical and mental rest
This therapy focuses on helping individuals return to everyday tasks like eating, dressing, and driving after a concussion.
occupational therapy
Wearing this protective equipment is one of the most common ways to reduce concussion risk in contact sports like football.
a helmet
This type of brain injury is often caused by a sudden, forceful movement of the head.
TBI
This type of symptom refers to difficulty remembering things or concentrating, often experienced after a concussion.
memory loss or cognitive impairment
This process involves gradually returning to normal activity after a concussion, with the goal of preventing further injury.
graduated return-to-play protocol
These exercises can help improve a person's visual processing and reaction time, which are often affected after a concussion.
visual-motor integration exercises
This is the term for teaching athletes proper techniques to reduce the risk of head injury during play.
safe playing technique or body mechanics
This test, commonly used in sports, evaluates an athlete's cognitive function and balance after a concussion.
the ImPACT test
This diagnostic tool is used to assess structural damage to the brain, often after a significant concussion.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
This medical professional plays a key role in assessing, diagnosing, and managing concussions.
a neurologist
This type of therapy is used by occupational therapists to help individuals adjust to cognitive changes and improve focus and attention.
cognitive rehabilitation therapy
These rules in sports leagues help reduce the incidence of concussions by regulating contact and encouraging safer play.
concussion safety protocols or "return-to-play" rules
This term refers to the condition in which an individual experiences repeated concussions, potentially leading to long-term cognitive impairments.
chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)
This symptom involves sensitivity to light or sound, which can be exacerbated after a concussion.
What is photophobia or phonophobia?
In severe cases, a concussion may lead to these long-term issues, which may require extensive rehabilitation.
cognitive deficits or post-concussion syndrome
This strategy involves teaching athletes how to pace themselves, manage stress, and gradually return to their routine after a concussion.
energy conservation and pacing
This new technology is used in helmets and headgear to help absorb impact and reduce the likelihood of concussions.
impact-absorbing technologies or sensors
FINAL JEORPARDY
This is the only time when CTE can be definitively diagnosed, as the brain must be examined for tau protein deposits.
after death (or posthumously)