Concussion is a traumatic brain injury that causes alterations in brain function. The injury is at a cellular level and no structural damage can be observed on a scan such as an x-ray, CT scan or MRI scan.
ConcussionNI.net was developed by sports medicine practitioners from Sport Northern Ireland’s Sports Institute, in conjunction with the Department for Communities and in partnership with stakeholders from the sport, education and health sectors.
The website incorporates international medical guidance, the Berlin Consensus statement on concussion in sport, which highlights the importance of rehabilitating the brain through cognitive rest alongside physical rest. It includes evidence-based information for users on identifying potential symptoms of concussion, and guidance for sports on safe return to play.
Concussion NI – Know The Score
UK Concussion Guidelines for Grassroots Sport
The guidelines developed by an expert panel of domestic and international clinicians and academics in neurology and sports medicine, sets out steps to improve understanding and awareness of the prevention and treatment of concussion in grassroots sport where trained medical professionals are less likely to be routinely present. It is targeted at people of all ages.
Read the guidelines here.
‘If in doubt, sit them out’ is the strapline, making clear no-one should return to sport within 24 hours of a suspected concussion and builds on guidance already introduced in Scotland.
Players, parents, coaches, teachers and administrators are now asked to read the guidance and familiarise themselves with the necessary steps to:
The guidelines include a recommendation to call NHS 111 within 24 hours of a potential concussion, to rest and sleep as much as needed for the first 24 to 48 hours and avoid using devices which involve screen time.
In addition, a graduated return to activity such as work, education and sport is advised to reduce the risks of slow recovery, further brain injury and longer-term problems. Individuals should be assessed by an appropriate healthcare professional if symptoms persist for more than four weeks.
