CDC issues guidelines on treating concussions in children

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued guidelines for the first time on treatment for children with concussions, stating that they will provide doctors with the "tools they need to ensure the best outcomes for their young patients" with mTBI (mild traumatic brain injury).

MTBI on the Rise

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), or concussion, in children is a rapidly growing public health concern in the United States. It can disrupt the physiological function of the brain and may be caused by something as common as a bump to the head or by something more serious like a blow, or a jolt. CDC’s Pediatric mTBI Guideline has been issued with the goal to improve the treatment of this injury.

Children have the highest rate of emergency department visits for traumatic brain injury (TBI)  of all age groups. TBI affects children differently than it does grown-ups. An injury of any severity to the developing brain can disrupt a child’s growth and may affect his or her participation in sports. As a result of TBI, children can experience deviations in their overall health, cognitive functions or behavioral functions. It can have an impact on their learning abilities, too.

Key practice-changing recommendations from the CDC Pediatric mTBI Guideline include:

• Do not routinely image pediatric patients to diagnose mTBI.
• Use validated, age-appropriate symptom scales to diagnose mTBI.
• Assess for risk factors for prolonged recovery.
• Provide patients with instructions on returning to activity, customized to their symptoms.
• Counsel patients to return to non-sports activities gradually after no more than 2–3 days of rest.

With concern for concussions in children on the rise, the CDC addresses parents and coaches to raise awareness of this serious issue. Children who play contact sports are especially at risk!

If you are a parent or a coach, pay special attention to these symptoms:

• A headache that gets worse & does not go away
• Significant nausea or repeated vomiting
• Increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation
• Slurred speech, drowsiness, or inability to wake up
• Weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination
• Loss of consciousness, convulsions, or seizures
  

Remember that the earlier you recognize the problem the faster the orthopedic doctor in Boynton Beach or Boca Raton can help!

Sports Medicine in Boca Raton

Need more information about concussions in children or sports medicine in Boca Raton in general? Ask Orthopaedic Surgery Associates in Palm Beach County

Whether it’s post-injury help or a consultation about your child’s first symptoms, our orthopedic doctors in Boynton Beach or Boca Raton provide total management of patient care in Palm Beach County. If you’d like to find out more about us, our doctors, and our facilities, or you want to make an appointment, contact us. We will help you stay healthy and happy!

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/features/pediatric-mtbi-guideline/index.html

The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.  Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.