Concussion Information

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury that can be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, face or neck, or a blow to the body that causes your head to move back and forth quickly. Concussions are not visible.

What do I do if I think my son/daughter has a concussion?

Stop what they are doing and have them examined by a medical professional immediately. Call (855) 252-8452 to schedule an appointment with a board-certified sports medicine physician who specializes in adult and pediatric concussions.*

Can my son/daughter finish the game?

No, they should not continue playing. Florida Law states that any child suspected of suffering a concussion should refrain from game play. The child must have written consent to return to play.

When can my son/daughter return to sports?

After a medical evaluation rules out any other brain injury and symptoms have subsided, they can walk through a series of steps called supervised step-wise return to play. The steps are as follows:

  1. No activity – rest until completely symptom free
  2. Light aerobic exercise
  3. Sport-specific training
  4. Non-contact drills
  5. Full-contact drills
  6. Game play

Facts to remember:

  • Symptoms may show up right away, but some may not start for weeks or even months after the injury.
  • Things like school tests that require you to concentrate or focus can actually slow your recovery. To recover, you need to rest both physically and mentally.
  • Once you have had a concussion you are more likely to have repeated concussions. Take time to fully recover.

Test Your Knowledge: Concussion Quiz

Download our Concussion Info Sheet for more valuable information.

*If you feel that the injury requires emergency care, visit your nearest emergency center.

Concussion Signs and Symptoms

  • Clumsiness, dizziness or balance issues
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Headache
  • Blurred vision
  • Nausea/vomiting
  • Sensitivity to light and sound
  • Confusion
  • Slow or slurred speech
  • Difficulty concentrating

Do you think you have a concussion? Call a concussion expert right now!*

Board-Certified Sports Medicine Physicians for Adults and Children:
Kevin Elder, MD
1919 W. Swann Ave., 3rd floor
Tampa, FL 33606
(813) 254-8055
Ted Farrar, MD
George Rankin, MD
Turley Family Health Center
807 N. Myrtle Ave.
Clearwater, FL 33755
(727) 467-2400
Christopher Salud, MD
900 Carillon Parkway, Suite 303
St. Petersburg, FL 33716
(727) 556-0363
For additional referrals:
(855) 252-8452