The Expert Corner: Quick Tips & Reminders
Mel Glenn, MD, National Medical Director, NeuroRestorative
January is National Winter Sports Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Awareness month.
We want to remind you to be safe while enjoying winter sports this season. Did you know that roughly 1.6-3.6 million TBIs are seen in sports each year in the United States? Skiing and snowboarding have a high number of head and neck injuries ever year. Here are a few tips signs & symptoms to note:
Tips:
- Wear appropriate protective gear—especially a helmet.
- Bring a cell phone.
- Be informed about current weather conditions.
- Bring a friend or family member.
- Hydrate throughout the day.
- Stop when necessary. Injuries may happen
- from exhaustion.
- Stay on marked trails.
- Seek medical attention if injured.
Concussion Signs and Symptoms:
If you experience any of the following signs or symptoms, please discuss with a medical professional before returning to sports and activities. If you have experienced a TBI and need rehabilitation support, please give us a call at 800-743-6802.
- Appearing to be dazed or stunned & answering slowly.
- Not able to recall prior events after fall/hit.
- Loss of consciousness.
- Changes in mood, behavior and/or personality.
- Headache, nausea or vomiting
- Bothered by light and/or noise