HEAD SMART SPORTS
Head Smart Sports is a non-profit organization created to provide funding for baseline neuropsychological testing at the start of youth athletics.
Concussion Facts
A concussion is a brain injury that affects how your brain works. A concussion is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or the body. A concussion can happen even if you haven’t been knocked out. If you think you have a concussion, you should not return to play on the day of the injury or until a medical professional clears you to return to play.
DID YOU KNOW?
Practices
33% of sport concussions happen at practice
High school football accounts for 47 percent of all reported sports concussions, with 33 percent of concussions occurring during practice. After football, ice hockey and soccer pose the most significant head health risk.
In The US
More than 3 million US cases per year
This occurs from a mild blow to the head, either with or without loss of consciousness and can lead to temporary cognitive symptoms. Symptoms may include headache, confusion, lack of coordination, memory loss, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, ringing in the ears, sleepiness, and excessive fatigue.
Neurological Effects
39% cumulative concussions could lead to permanent neurologic disability
CDC reports show that the amount of reported concussions has doubled in the last 10 years. The American Academy of Pediatrics has reported that emergency room visits for concussions in kids ages 8 to 13 years old has doubled, and concussions have risen 200 percent among teens ages 14 to 19.
Neuropsychological evaluation is an assessment of how one's brain functions, which indirectly yields information about the structural and functional integrity of your brain.
Safety in youth sport is the first victory
Help us spread awareness, prevention, and advocacy for every team everywhere!
The last few years have shown a spotlight on the dangers associated with head trauma in sports. Much focus has been placed on providing a safer environment for athletes of all ages. Part of the discussion surrounding concussions and their impact on brain function is the inability to determine the true measure of that impact based on the lack of baseline testing. Read more