Canadian Harmonized Sport Concussion Protocol Template

Canadian Harmonized Sport Concussion Protocol Checklist

Physical Activity and Concussion Recovery

After a concussion, current guidelines recommend an early return to physical activity if it does not make symptoms worse. A study found that a 20-minute exercise session enhanced executive function in participants. Additionally, they reported a reduction in symptoms within 24 hours of the intervention. This reinforces that healthcare professionals can prescribe physical activity programs…

Concussion non-disclosure in women’s rugby

Disclosing concussion symptoms is crucial for proper recovery and to prevent a second impact. A study of female rugby players found that many conceal their symptoms due to concerns about work, limited awareness, and poor communication around concussion management. Recognizing these barriers can help team managers develop initiatives that encourage symptom disclosure and enhance education.

Concussion Recovery and Psychosocial Factors

Athletes who have experienced a sport-related concussion may be at risk of persistent symptoms. A study of 353 young hockey players found that psychological distress related to concussion outcomes and a history of problems with peers before the injury were associated with slower recovery. Addressing these psychosocial factors could help support a quicker return to…

Knowledge and education on sport-related concussions

Several initiatives aim to educate athletes about sport-related concussions. A recent study involving 593 athletes found those who had received concussion education, experienced a concussion, or had access to medical staff demonstrated better knowledge. To enhance safety and awareness, tailored educational initiatives could be designed to reach athletes without access to medical support.

Managing concussions in children

Recent Canadian research has shown that, at least in children, there is no difference in symptom recovery between sport-related and non-sport-related concussions, reinforcing the need for proper care for every concussion, no matter where or how it happens.

Riley VanDeHogen (vand6030@mylaurier.ca) @ 06/09/2025

Sports-related concussions (SRCs) represent a significant concern in football due to their complexity, long-term impacts, and high incidence rates. An injured athlete’s return to sport primarily focuses on the physical recovery, with psychosocial influences (e.g., fear of re-injury) often being overlooked. Factors such as social pressures, sports culture, and adherence to the sport ethic can…

Alison Doherty (ADOHERTY@UWO.CA) @ 06/05/2025

The prevention and medical management of concussions in sport are advancing, however too many incidents continue to be unreported at the youth level. Participants continue to under-report concussion symptoms during play, putting themselves at risk of further harm and longer recovery. To address this important gap in safe youth sport, we identify the multiple levels…

Diversifying concussion research

There is a significant gap in race and ethnicity reporting in concussion research. A recent review revealed that out of 854 articles, only 15.5% reported race, 7.6% reported ethnicity, and 84.4% did not report either. To better understand the impact of concussions across diverse populations, researchers should include diverse participants in their studies and accurately…