What is a concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that is caused by a blow to the head or body, a fall, or another injury that jars or shakes the brain inside the skull. Although there may be cuts or bruises on the head or face, there may be no other visible signs of a brain injury. Concussions may happen in any sporting activity and can occur in many different ways, for example: a player hitting their head on the ground, or being struck in the head by an object or another player. A concussion can be accompanied by loss of consciousness; however this is not common in most cases. A startling 1.6 to 3.8 million concussions occur each year, 80% of which go undiagnosed.
The concussion law in Wisconsin requires:
All youth athletic organizations to educate coaches, athletes and parents on the risks of concussions and head injuries and prohibits participation in a youth activity until the athlete and parent or guardian has returned a signed agreement sheet indicating they have reviewed the concussion and head injury informational materials. The law requires immediate removal of an individual from a youth athletic activity if symptoms indicate a possible concussion has been sustained. A person who has been removed from a youth athletic activity because of a determined or suspected concussion or head injury, may not participate again until he or she is evaluated by a health care provider and receives written clearance from the health care provider to return to the activity.