Concussion Awareness Program

ALT Rest beyond the first 24-48 hours after a concussion is not recommended and may cause more harm than good. Return to physical and cognitive activity should be gradual and individualized based on activity tolerance and symptom presentation (e.g., the patient is able to engage in an activity while tolerating a mild increase in symptoms). Complete absence from the school environment for more than one week is generally not recommended. The child/adolescent should gradually return to their school environment (with academic accommodations) as soon as they are able to tolerate engaging in cognitive activities, even if they are still experiencing symptoms. Full-contact sport or high-risk activities where there is a risk for repeat concussion should be avoided until medically cleared.

ALT Major updates to clinical care and return to sports and school protocols: -Major update and clarification on how much rest is required and what activities are permitted immediately after a concussion -Strengthened guidance on the role of early aerobic exercise as therapy for treating concussion -Change in timing of clearance for return to full-contact sports Major updates and clarifications to the return to school and return to sports/activity steps -Updated guidance on maintaining social networks and interactions during recovery -Strengthened guidance on the use of devices with screens after a concussion -Updated list of tools that are available for recognizing, diagnosing, and managing concussion (CRT6, ACRM diagnostic criteria, SCAT6, SCOAT6) See www.pedsconcussion Updated protocols: https://pedsconcussion.com/return-to-activity-sport-school/