Photo: Steve Schable, ATC/L, St. Anthony Director of Sports Performance
National statistics are revealing that over the past 10 years, the number of concussions suffered by 14 to 19 year olds has increased about 200 percent. This staggering number makes it more important than ever for student athletes and parents to understand and recognize the symptoms of a concussion and to ensure that the students are screened prior to entering into practice seasons and competitions this fall. St. Anthony Regional Hospital is offering free screenings for local athletes through a computerized concussion management tool called ImPACT. The approximately 40-minute initial test is imperative in creating a baseline for healthcare providers to compare to any needed post-injury tests when a concussion is suspected. This also helps with tracking the healing process and determining when an athlete is able to return to activity. It is highly recommended that students involved in extra-curricular activities, such as cheerleading, dance, football, volleyball, soccer, basketball, track and more, have screenings every two years. Symptoms of concussion include: difficulty thinking clearly; concentrating or remembering; feeling sluggish or hazy; pressure in the head; nausea or vomiting; blurred vision; fatigue; mood swings; or drowsiness.
