6 Myths: Young Athletes and Concussions

In 2011, approximately 2 million U.S. youths experienced a concussion, yet many parents, coaches and players fail to understand the seriousness of the injury, according to a Royal Oak concussion specialist.

Dr. Neal Alpiner, chief of Pediatric Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at , presented program to fall athletes at last summer with the goal of educating parents, coaches and players and to debunk common myths.

Myth No. 1: Most athletes know when they’ve experienced a concussion.
Not so, said Alpiner.

“That ‘wow’ moment is rare," he said. "It’s really important that teammates, trainers, coaches and parents understand the seriousness of concussions. This includes the symptoms and the need for timely medical treatment. Athletes may not recognize changes in their own behavior and thinking.”

Myth No. 2: Concussions are always a result of high impact.
Not necessarily. Alpiner said a concussion doesn’t have to result from a great force or impact. The event can also be subtle. All it takes is a blow to the head or body that results in rapid movement of the head. If a coach suspects a concussion, he or she should remove the athlete from play. All concussions are serious.

Myth No. 3: If a young athlete doesn’t lose consciousness, he did not suffer a concussion.
False. It can happen even if the athlete did not lose consciousness.

Myth No. 4: Boys are at greater risk than girls for concussions.
Not true. Girls are equally at risk to have a concussion as male athletes. Female athletes also compete in physically demanding sports, including soccer, lacrosse, hockey, skiing, volleyball, basketball and softball.

Myth No. 5: Follow-up care isn’t necessary after an athlete has a concussion.
Wrong. Ignoring follow-up care and advice can have serious consequences. If an athlete resumes participation in the sport too soon, a second concussion can lead to brain damage and, in some cases, death. “It’s better to miss a game or two than the whole season,” Alpiner said.

Myth No. 6: Pediatric concussions and adult concussions are similar.
False. Because of ongoing brain development, children and teens are more likely to experience a concussion than adults. The brains of teens are much more dynamic.

A recent study published in the journal Pediatrics reported that recovery from concussions in young athletes may take longer than previously thought. Most of the athletes followed in the study had improved reaction times and memory skills two weeks post-concussion. After four weeks, most were ready to resume sports.

Alpiner is the chief of Pediatric Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Beaumont Children’s Hospital and is physician leader of the high school concussion awareness program.

More on Concussions

• Program Gives Athletes the Heads-Up on Concussions