More than 40 per cent of child and youth injuries treated in emergency departments are sport and recreation related.

The greatest number of sports injuries occur among those aged 10-19 years and children and youth are at greater risk of concussions.

Sport injuries can lead to an inability to participate, loss of training and competition time, the decision to quit the sport entirely and potential long term health effects. Addressing the issues and providing education around prevention strategies is important to supporting healthy and successful participant development and performance. It is important for everyone to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms and what to do if an injury occurs.

Concussions can occur while participating in any sport or recreational activity. Since the circumstances under which a concussion can be sustained are so varied, it’s important for all coaches, parents, and athletes to be aware of the signs, symptoms, and what to do if a concussion occurs.

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BCWA is committed to increasing education and awareness that will assist in gaining the knowledge and skills required to ensure the safety of athletes.

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Concussion Education

Concussion: The Basics

Concussion Awareness Training Tool

NCCP Making Headway

 

Canadian Concussion Guidelines

As part of a national project to harmonize concussion guidelines and protocols, Parachute Canada led the development of the Canadian Concussion Guidelines. Harmonized protocols will better equip coaches, officials, athletes, parents and medical professionals with information that is consistent and based on evidence.

The recommendations include:

1. Pre-season education

2. Head Injury Recognition

3. On-site Medical Assessments

4. Medical Assessments

5. Concussion Management

6. Multidisciplinary Concussion Care

7. Return to Sport

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Return to Play Guidelines

A concussion is a serious event, but you can recover fully from such an injury if the brain is given enough time to rest and recuperate. Returning to normal activities, including sport participation, is a step-wise process that requires patience, attention, and caution. Return to Play Guidelines.

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Athletes who are diagnosed with a concussion should be managed according to the Canadian Guideline on Concussion in Sport including the Return-to-School and Return-to-Sport Strategies. No athlete that has been diagnosed and is being treated for a concussion should be “returned to play” without presenting this Medical Clearance Letter.