According to the Center for Disease Control it is estimated that 1.6-3.8 million sports and recreation related concussions occur each year in the United States.
The impact of a concussion has been given more attention thanks to a new movie featuring Will Smith called "Concussion." There have been many different types of sports movies, but this is the first to focus on an issue that many athletes face. Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump or jolt to the head. Concussions can also occur from a fall or a blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move quickly back and forth.
According to the Center for Disease Control it is estimated that 1.6-3.8 million sports and recreation related concussions occur each year in the United States. Concussions can impair a person's cognitive abilities, such as reasoning and remembering, as well as psychological, neurological and physical health. If you suspect a concussion, it is important to seek medical care immediately with your primary care physician or by going directly to the Emergency Department.
In cases where additional resources are required, Hunterdon Healthcare's Head Smart Concussion Care Program offers a specialized team approach to concussion management by providing concussion evaluation and management including triage and coordination of services, development of an individualized concussion care plan and standardized care through our system-wide Hunterdon Concussion Recovery Prescription.
Hunterdon Healthcare's Head Smart Program connects families to an extensive list of resources that also include: Board certified Sports and Family Medicine Physicians; Orthopedic Services; Neurologists; Counseling and psychological testing including baseline and post -concussion ImPACT testing; Physical Therapy, including Return to Play Program; Return to Learn Program for children and adolescents; Assistance with school based accommodations; Vestibular and Cognitive Therapy.
For more information, contact Hunterdon Healthcare's Head Smart Concussion Program at 908-788-6396.