The Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey is a team of board-certified neurologists and neurosurgeons who provide expert care for a variety of pediatric neurological conditions, including pediatric sports-related concussions. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools and innovative treatment techniques to ensure the best outcomes for your child.
The Physical Impact
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) typically caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. In sports, concussions often result from collisions, falls, or sudden movements that shake the brain within the skull. While concussions are usually not life-threatening, they can lead to significant short- and long-term effects on a child's cognitive function, balance, coordination, and emotional well-being. Prompt evaluation and appropriate management are crucial to minimizing complications and supporting a safe return to sports and normal activities.
How Common Is This Condition?
Pediatric sports-related concussions are increasingly recognized as a significant public health concern, especially in contact or high-impact sports such as football, soccer, hockey, basketball, and cheerleading. Concussions can occur in athletes of any age, but children and adolescents are more susceptible to prolonged recovery times and potential complications due to their developing brains. Awareness of concussion symptoms and early intervention are essential for ensuring kids remain healthy and safe while staying active.
Risk Factors:
- Participation in contact or high-impact sports
- Previous history of concussion or head injury
- Inadequate protective gear or improper use of equipment
- Aggressive style of play or lack of adherence to safety rules
Signs and Symptoms
Concussion symptoms may appear immediately or develop over hours or days following an injury. Common signs include:
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Nausea or vomiting
- Confusion, difficulty concentrating, or memory loss
- Changes in sleep patterns (sleeping more or less than usual)
- Irritability, mood swings, or feeling “foggy”
How We Diagnose
At the Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey, diagnosing a pediatric sports-related concussion begins with a thorough evaluation of your child's medical history and a review of the injury. Key diagnostic steps include:
- Physical and Neurological Exam: Assesses coordination, balance, reflexes, and any visible signs of head trauma.
- Neurocognitive Testing: Helps evaluate memory, attention, and reaction times to determine cognitive impact.
- Imaging Studies (MRI or CT): May be used if symptoms are severe, worsen over time, or if there's concern about structural brain injury.
- Symptom Tracking and Assessment: Monitoring symptom progression over time to guide care and ensure proper recovery.
This comprehensive approach allows us to confirm the diagnosis and customize an effective treatment and rehabilitation plan.
Treatment Options
Management of pediatric sports-related concussions focuses on allowing the brain sufficient time to heal and preventing further injury. Treatment options may include:
- Physical and Cognitive Rest: Limiting strenuous activity, sports participation, and intense mental tasks until symptoms improve.
- Gradual Return-to-Play Protocol: Supervised step-by-step progression back to sports once symptoms subside.
- Medication: May be used to alleviate severe headaches or other persistent symptoms.
- Therapies and Rehabilitation: Physical therapy, vestibular therapy, or neurocognitive rehabilitation can help address persistent symptoms and aid in recovery.
- Educational Accommodations: Adjustments at school, such as reduced workload or extra time on tests, may be recommended during recovery.
Our multidisciplinary team at the Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey works closely with families, coaches, and teachers to develop a safe, personalized plan that supports your child's recovery and long-term well-being.
Our Commitment to Your Child's Health
“I am neurosurgeon living in New Jersey, board-certified by both the American Board of Neurosurgery (ABNS) and Pediatric Neurosurgery (ABPNS). I specialize in the surgical treatment of complex epilepsy and serve as the Director of the Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey, Chief of Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery at Sanzari Children's Hospital, and Chief of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Children's Hospital of NJ, where I provide exceptional care for children with complex neurological conditions. Your child's health and well-being are our top priorities.”
