Concussion in Rugby

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The Recognise and Remove message incorporates 6 Rs

Recognise -
Learn the signs and symptoms of a concussion so you understand when a player might have a suspected concussion.

Remove -
If a player has a concussion or even a suspected concussion he or she must be removed from play immediately.

Refer -
Once removed from play, the player should be referred immediately to a qualified healthcare professional who is trained in evaluating and treating concussions.

Rest -
Players must rest from exercise until symptom-free and then start a Graduated Return to Play. The IRB recommends a more conservative return to play for children and adolescents.

Recover -
Full recovery from the concussion is required before return to play is authorized. This includes being symptom-free. Rest and specific treatment options are critical for the health of the injured participant.

Return -
In order for safe return to play in Rugby, the athlete must be symptom-free and cleared in writing by a qualified healthcare professional who is trained in evaluating and treating concussions. The athlete completes the GRTP (Graduated Return to Play) protocol.