Although not intentional, it is possible for concussions to occur following a blow to the head (e.g a flying elbow during a water polo practice or game). They are more common than we think. We have brought our coaching staff up to date on current Concussion information and protocol. If you would like more information, you can visit the ThinkFirst website at http://www.thinkfirst.ca/index.aspx. They are a leading authority on the prevention of brain injuries. Symptoms of a concussion include headaches and nausea. If you suspect an athlete has suffered a concussion, you should consult a doctor right away. There is a strict protocol that needs to be followed before an athlete can return to playing water polo games. Step 1 – no physical activity until the headaches are gone Step 2 – light exercise (10-15 minutes of walking or stationary cycling) Step 3 – Swimming for 20-30 minutes Step 4 – Full practice, but NO CONTACT Step 5 – Full practice with contact Step 6 – Full game play The athlete can only progress through one step per day. If, at any point in time headaches return, the athlete has to go back to step 1 and consider consulting a doctor again. Here is a COACH resource: http://www.thinkfirst.ca/downloads/concussion/concussion-coach.pdf PARENT resource here: http://www.thinkfirst.ca/downloads/concussion/concussion-parent.pdf ATHLETE resource here: http://www.thinkfirst.ca/downloads/concussion/concussion-information-athletes.pdf General Q and A regarding concussions here: http://www.thinkfirst.ca/programs/concussionqanda.aspx
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