SPORTS-RELATED CONCUSSION

Media focus on the longterm effects of concussion has created a culture of fear. Despite significant advancements in our understanding of the injury and treatment protocols, there is little mainstream conversation about current, evidence-based best practices. 

The truth is that concussion is a treatable injury and that active recovery has been demonstrated to be the most effective treatment available.

If you are a parent, coach, athletic trainer, physician, or athlete, this information is essential. 

My name is Dr. Erin Reynolds and I am a Clinical Sports Neuropsychologist who specializes in treating sports-related concussions. 

Concussions have been in the spotlight for some time now, with regular media stories focused on the danger of head injury and the potential long-term effects. Unfortunately, the media doesn’t always do a great job of providing balanced stories or explaining the limitations of scientific papers. This results in fear amongst athletes and parents, with some families steering their kids away from team sports to reduce their risk of injury.

Since starting my career in sports neuropsychology, I have logged over 20,000 face-to-face patient hours treating sports-related concussions. It is incredibly frustrating and disheartening to watch the media perpetuate the fear narrative with no discussion about the advances in treatment and the importance of active rehabilitation. It is my hope that through my clinical work, ongoing research, and use of social media, that I can spread the message that concussion is a treatable injury and that participation in youth sports greatly outweighs the risk of injury in most cases.