A concussion is a temporary injury to the brain that cannot be seen on routine x-rays or scans. It affects the way a person may think and remember things for a short time, and can cause a variety of symptoms.

What causes a concussion?

Any blow to the head, face or neck, or a blow to the body which causes a sudden jarring of the head may cause a concussion.

How should we respond to this?

All players with suspected or confirmed concussion must comply with IRB Regulation 10 and any requirements issues by the RFU. The RFU has some very good guidance as part the ‘Headcase’ campaign ‘Don’t be a Headcase Stop! Check for concussion’ to assist all involved with advice: http://www.englandrugby.com/my-rugby/players/player-health/concussion-headcase/

Thinking problems the player may experience:

Does not know time, date, place, period of game, opposing team, or the score in the game – use the Pocket SCAT3 questions to help
General confusion
Cannot remember things that happened before and/or after the injury
Seems slow to answer questions or follow directions
Seems easily distracted
Not playing as well as expected
A blank stare/glassy eyed – ‘the lights are on but nobody is at home’.
Things the player may complain of or you see:

Knocked out
Headache
Dizziness
Feel dazed, “dinged” or stunned
Loss of vision, seeing double or blurred, seeing stars or flashing lights
Ringing in the ears
Sleepiness
Stomach ache, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting
Poor coordination or balance, staggering around or unsteady on feet
Slurred speech
Poor concentration
Strange or inappropriate emotions (i.e. laughing, crying, getting angry easily)
Feeling generally unwell
On this page there is the opportunity to Take the HEADCASE test as a guide, but the RFU have made it clear that the information contained is for educational purposes only and not meant to be a substitute for appropriate medical advice or care. If is believed that someone has sustained a concussion it is strongly recommend that a qualified health care professional is contacted for appropriate diagnosis and treatment:

Quiz for coaches
Quiz for match officials
Quiz for players
Quiz for teachers, parents & guardians

Who should recognise suspected concussion?

Coaches particularly have a vital role in the prevention and management of concussion. Research has shown that young players in particular rely on their coach to provide information on concussion and are influenced most in their behaviour towards concussion by their coach. All Coaches should be able to recognise suspected concussion and are in the best position to remove the player from play. The RFU website have some additional advice to assist Coaches on the prevention of concussion: http://www.englandrugby.com/my-rugby/players/player-health/concussion-headcase/prevention/

It is recommended that you read through the information relevant to your role in rugby and use the RFU resources contained in the website: http://www.englandrugby.com/my-rugby/players/player-health/concussion-headcase/resources/