Know when it’s okay for your child to head back onto the field after a head injury!
Your child is tearing up the soccer field when suddenly, they get hit in the head. This blow to the head wasn’t your ordinary header, it was a hard hit which stopped your child from continuing to play. The coach pulls them out and you rush to the sidelines. What should you do? After sustaining a head injury, your child should refrain from physical activity for at least the rest of the day and you should seek medical attention. Your child could have a concussion or a more serious brain injury.
After consulting with a doctor, they’ll be able to best assess the injury and advise the best course of action. The immediate situation has been dealt with, but your child loves soccer and wants to return to the field. When can they return to play?
Ultimately, the decision as to when it’s okay to return to physical activity depends on the injury and doctor approval. Check out these factors that shed a little light on the doctor’s reasoning.
- Symptoms. Your child’s symptoms are an indication of the severity of the injury and how they’re recovering. These symptoms also include cognitive ability and balance. If your child is struggling in these areas, it will take longer to return to the field. Usually, the less severe the symptoms, the sooner they can return to the sport, but only with doctor approval.
- Medical History. Your child’s medical history and predisposition to certain ailments plays a role in determining when it’s okay to go back to the field. Make sure to notify the doctor of any medications taken or serious injuries or ailments sustained.
- Concussion History. If your child has sustained a head injury before, it plays a role in the recovery time. Be sure to notify your child’s doctor of any previous injuries.
- Nature of The Sport Played. Another fact is the risks of the sport. Your child is more likely to return to a non-contact sport sooner than a contact sport.
Putting your child’s health first is a top priority. Make sure their health is in good hands, and contact Pediatric Surgical Associates. Our Orange County pediatric surgeons are experts at protecting your kids’ health, and wellness!