Concussion Protocol

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head or by a jolt to the body that jars your head. It affects your ability to think and remember things.

Because concussions are a common type of injury in sport, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and treatment.

Concussion symptoms

Physical

Headache
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Blurred vision
Sensitivity to light or sound
Ringing in the ears
Balance issues
Low energy

Mental

Not thinking clearly
Slow response
Mental fog
Difficulty concentrating
Memory problems

Emotional

Easily upset
Sadness
Anxiety
Emotional ups and downs

What to do if you suspect a concussion

Athletes should not return to play or any other physical activity if they suspect a concussion.

If you think that you or your child may have a concussion, see a doctor immediately.

Seek emergency care if the following symptoms are present:

Neck pain or tenderness
Double vision
Weakness in arms or legs
Severe headache
Seizure or convulsion
Loss of consciousness
Repeated vomiting
Slurred speech
Prolonged ringing in the ears
Unusual behaviour
Nose bleeds
Confusion (difficulty recognizing people or places)

Concussion prevention

There are steps you can take to minimize the possibility of a concussion.

Wear protective equipment that fits properly and is well-maintained.
Follow the rules of the game and practice good sportsmanship.
Exercise regularly so that your entire body is strong and agile.
Increase awareness by sharing concussion information with other athletes.

Concussion Protocol and Related Resources

Ringette Canada in collaboration with Parachute Canada (a nationally recognized safety organization), developed the Ringette Concussion Protocol and related resources to help guide the management of individuals who may have a suspected concussion while participating in the sport Ringette.