Considerations in the management of concussion with an illustrative case example

Abstract

Concussions are extremely common injuries, especially among student athletes. With emerging guidelines that will require physicians to make decisions regarding injured athletes' return to physical activity, the family physician will soon be faced with more frequent questions from injured athletes and with new responsibilities to help ensure patients' safety. Assessment tools such as Sport Concussion Assessment Tool and neurocognitive testing will assist with evaluation and return to play decisions, but ultimately, it is important for the physician to develop a strategy for comfortably and appropriately managing this frequently encountered and challenging problem.