What is the difference in concussion management in children as compared with adults?
A 2017 systematic review recommends:
- child and adolescent age specific paradigms along with child-validated symptom rating scales should be used;
- the widespread routine use of baseline Computerised Neuropsychological tests are not recommended;
- the expected duration of symptoms associated with sprots related concussion is less than 4 weeks;
- prolonged recovery be defined as symptomatic for greater than 4 weeks;
- a brief period of cognitive and physical rest should be followed with gradual symptom-limited physical and cognitive activity;
All schools should be encouraged to have a concussion policy and should offer appropriate academic accommodations and support to students recovering from sports related concussion
Children and adolescents should not return to sport until they have successfully returned to school, however early introduction of symptom-limited physical activity is appropriate.