Central nervous system trauma - Management of concussions in athletes

No injury creates more anxiety in the team physician than a concussion. The young athlete often wants to know how soon he can resume play, whereas the physician worries about whether the athlete is being truthful about his symptoms, There may also be a question of whether the athlete and the athlete's parents are being truthful about a history of concussions. There are numerous reviews and opinions on concussion, but they are based on little scientific evidence. Most studies are done on inpatients who have moderate to severe brain injuries. There is a gap between the knowledge about brain injuries and their treatment in the office and on the athletic field. The physician's discomfort is a result of the high stakes. Virtually any concussion can result in permanent brain injury. Fortunately, the new interest in the sports medicine community has begun to provide some information about the management of concussions.