Every year, players of all ages in all sports receive concussion injuries during games and practice. Characterized by an impairment of the brain’s normal function and caused by violent shaking or jarring of the brain, concussions may cause alterations in cognitive function, vision, eye movement, facial movement, or speech. Contrary to popular belief, no helmet in any sport can prevent a concussion.
Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI), caused by a blow or jolt to the head that can range from mild to severe and can disrupt the way the brain normally works. Coaches, administrators and trainers play a key role in helping to prevent concussion and in managing it properly if it occurs. Having a written concussion management plan is a recommended first step.
- Concussion Management Plan - Guidelines from USL
- Concussion Management Plan - Infographic
- Concussion Recognition Tool 5 (CRT5)
US Lacrosse and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have partnered to develop a number of educational resources regarding concussions. These resources, titled Heads Up, contain practical, easy-to-use information designed to help reduce the numbers of this type of injury.
- Heads Up Resources: Athletes & Parents | Coaches
- Add Heads Up to Your Website
- Free Concussion Training Course
- Heads Up 'Rocket Blades' for Younger Athletes
Additional Resources
- Eight Takeaways on Female Concussions
- Get the FAQs on Head Impact Sensors
- USL Safety Initiatives Consistent With Concussion Report Recommendations
- US Lacrosse Joins National Sports Concussion Coaltion
- Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport (5th International Conference)
- Concussion Q&A with the US Lacrosse Experts
- American Academy of Neurology - Sports Concussion Guidelines
- Video: Concussions - Don't Hide It, Report It from the NCAA
- AMSSM Concussion Position Statement