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Sports-Related Concussion Treatment

Helping you get back in the game.

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or call us at 484-526-6784

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Choose the region’s leading concussion experts.

Every year, approximately 3.8 million Americans sustain concussions–a type of brain injury caused by impact to the head or body–during sports or recreation. St. Luke's provides a comprehensive concussion recovery program, helping you return to your favorite sport or activity quickly and safely.

Signs and symptoms

Concussions result in a range of symptoms depending on the individual and injury. It's important to note that loss of consciousness occurs in only about 10% of concussions, and signs and symptoms may not appear until several days after your injury.

Physical

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Social & emotional

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The St. Luke’s team is here for you.

Our diverse group of experts collaborate to protect athletes from injury, identify concussions when they occur, and provide safe treatment plans.

Who do we care for?

  • Ages 8 to 25: If you’ve sustained a concussion within the last 30 days, call 484-526-6784 to schedule an appointment.
  • Under 8 or over 25, or concussion occurred more than 30 days ago: Call your primary care provider for a screening and referral.

Concussion emergency signs

Call 9-1-1 or seek immediate medical attention if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:

  • Inability to recall new events after the injury (anterograde amnesia)
  • Confusion, restlessness, or agitation
  • Headache that worsens and persists
  • Loss of consciousness or extreme drowsiness
  • One pupil larger than the other
  • Repeated vomiting
  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Slurred speech or unusual behavior
  • Symptoms of associated head/neck injuries, spine, or skull fractures
  • Weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination
  • Unable to recognize people or places

Concussion modifiers

Concussion symptoms can be prolonged or intensified if you have pre-existing conditions, known as “concussion modifiers.” Examples of these modifiers include:

  • ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)
  • ADD (attention deficit disorder)
  • Emotional and mental health disorders
  • Headaches or migraines
  • Learning disabilities
  • Previous concussions

Experience the power of teamwork.

When you're recovering from a concussion, we're here for you. At St. Luke's, we prioritize your health and safety by creating a personalized care plan. You'll have a dedicated team of experts closely monitoring you recovery, including:

  • Physicians
  • Psychologists
  • Physical therapists
  • Athletic trainers
  • Education specialists

Student-athletes may need a short break from school and extra support when returning to avoid overloading their healing brain. Discuss your return-to-learn plan with your St. Luke's Concussion Specialist.

St. Luke’s uses a 6-stage return-to-play protocol that’s implemented by your Athletic Trainer. Each stage takes a minimum of 24 hours. If any signs or symptoms arise, stop and inform your Athletic Trainer or Concussion Specialist.

Stage 1:
Begin with 24 hours of symptom-free rest and normal cognitive activities like attending school and interacting with peers.

Stage 2:
Gradually introduce 15-40 minutes of light aerobic exercise at 70% max heart rate to start elevating heart rate.

Stage 3:
Progress to 15-40 minutes of individual sport-related drills, focusing on agility and pace changes while avoiding head impact activities.

Stage 4:
Engage in non-contact training drills, including sport-specific skills, potentially start resistance training.

Stage 5:
Move on to full practice participation, including contact drills, to restore confidence and assess functionality during play.

Stage 6:
Finally, return to normal game activity with regular exertion. If any symptoms reoccur, stop immediately and inform your athletic trainer or concussion specialist to ensure a safe recovery process.

To resume your sport after a concussion, you must:

  • Be symptom-free at rest and during normal activities
  • Fully return to school
  • Achieve a normal score on neuropsychological testing
  • Obtain clearance from their St. Luke's Concussion Specialist

Baseline concussion testing allows your provider to evaluate a suspected concussion and assess your ability to resume your sport. St. Luke’s Sports Medicine affiliated school districts and select youth organizations offer access to this testing.

Worried you may have a concussion?

If you think you’ve suffered a concussion, seek immediate medical attention and call the St. Luke’s Concussion Hotline at 484-526-6784.