5 Concussion Myths Debunked

Awareness about the dangers of concussions is at an all-time high. In response, athletic organizations, from Pop Warner football (a nonprofit program for kids 5 to 16) to USA Hockey, have safe-play protocols in place. But misconceptions about injury — prevention, management and return to play — are still all too common.

"It's great that parents, coaches and athletes are focused on the potential for concussions, but they also need to be aware of the complexities involved in evaluating, diagnosing and managing concussion," says Jeffrey Kutcher, M.D., a sports neurologist who treats athletes at the Henry Ford Kutcher Clinic for Concussion and Sports Neurology.

The best way to get the knowledge you need? Learn how to separate fact from fiction.

Separating Concussion Fact From Fiction

Here’s the truth behind five common concussion myths:

Myth #1: Concussions are only caused by blows to the head.

Concussions happen in response to force. While they often result from a blow to the head, they can also occur after a hit to the neck, shoulders or anywhere else on the body. To cause brain injury, the force of the impact only needs to cause the head to move rapidly back and forth (think whiplash from a car crash or a spill down the stairs).

Myth #2: Concussions always involve a loss of consciousness.

A very small percentage of all concussions, 10% or less, result in a loss of consciousness. For the remaining injuries, parents, coaches and medical providers should watch for additional symptoms such as:

• Confusion
• Balance problems
• Slurred speech
• Physical complaints including headache, nausea and vomiting

Myth #3: You should keep a person awake overnight after a concussion has occurred.

It's important to observe and interact with a recently concussed person for the first few hours to recognize the potential signs of a more serious injury. However, if they are interacting normally after four hours, it’s okay to let them sleep. If you have any doubts or questions, always err on the side of caution and seek medical attention.

Myth #4: After a concussion, kids should avoid digital media until they feel better.

Unless digital activities or screen time significantly worsen symptoms, there's no reason to avoid them. "You shouldn't force people who have suffered a concussion to rest too much — or deprive them of sensory input — if they are comfortable engaging in activity," Dr. Kutcher says. What’s more, taking away activities that bring a person joy or keep them socially connected could end up prolonging their recovery by creating additional symptoms.

Myth #5: All physical activity should be avoided after a concussion.

It’s important to rest for the first two to three days after a concussion. However, you need to be careful not to rest too much or avoid all activity for too long.

Engaging in physical, mental and social activities can be beneficial. But knowing how much to do and when to take it easy can be difficult. If you have any questions, consult a sports neurologist for specific recommendations.

Ground Rules for Concussion Prevention and Management

When it comes to preventing concussion, common sense offers the greatest impact, Dr. Kutcher notes. He recommends starting with these four tenets:

• Whenever possible, limit the amount of contact in practices and games.
• Wear proper fitting and certified helmets or other head protection whenever appropriate.
• Spread contact drills out over time as much as possible.
• Practice good technique and play by the rules.

Athletes — especially those who play contact sports — should undergo an annual neurological evaluation that includes a comprehensive, focused neurological history and examination. This information provides a critical point of reference for medical professionals.

Knowing the truth about concussions — including what to watch for and what to do if one occurs — is really the best game plan.

Dr. Jeffrey Kutcher is a sports neurologist at the Henry Ford Concussion and Sports Neurology Clinic and the global director of the Kutcher Clinic.