Kids & Concussions

Have you heard about sports concussions or concussion injuries and wondered what that really means? It's as simple as bumping your head while playing and not quite feeling OK after that.

What Should I Do If I Bump My Head and Feel Funny?

• Don't be afraid to tell someone about it
• Talk to your coach or teammates on the field
• Tell your parents, brother or sister, or a friend

Just be sure to tell someone right away and know that it's OK to stop playing. Or if it’s a teammate who is injured, don’t put pressure on him or her to return to a game. It’s not cool. It could be a serious injury.

Sports Physicals and Baseline Concussion Testing

Throughout the summer, the Banner Concussion Center and Sports Medicine Clinic will offer pre-participation physicals and baseline concussion testing for youth athletes. The sports physical will be performed by a board-certified physician in sports medicine and internal medicine. Check our events calendar for our schedule.

Many of our other facilities offer student physicals. Find a location near you

When Should I Stop Playing?

So how do you know when to stop after you’ve bumped your head when you fell or someone or something hit you? Here are things to watch out for and tell someone right away if:

• Your head hurts or you feel lots of pressure
• You feel like throwing up (vomiting)
• You’re feeling dizzy or woozy and can’t walk straight
• You can’t see properly and things are looking fuzzy
• The sun or any light feels too bright and you want to close your eyes
• Any noise is bugging you too much
• You feel very tired and can’t focus or feel confused
• You can’t seem to remember things
• Something does not “feel right” or you are “feeling down”

Playing while it still hurts does not mean you're being strong or brave. It’s OK to just say “No, I’m not feeling right.”

You may feel sad and upset at not being able to play, but just remember: How you feel is more important than finishing the game. It’s OK to walk away, get better and then return on the field.