How a Concussion Occurs
Click the tabs below to see actions that can lead to a concussion.
- Direct Impact to Head
- Impact to Head from Body Blow
- Direct Impact Due to Fall
- Indirect Impact
THE ACTION
Sudden impact to the head causes the head to snap forward, back or to the side. Possible causes: impact to the head by another player or sports equipment (ball, stick, protective equipment etc.).
THE RESULT
When the head snaps, the momentum causes movement of the brain within the skull leading to an alteration of brain function, causing concussion signs and symptoms.
THE ACTION
Sudden impact to the body causes the head to snap forward, back or to the side and connect with an object such as a wall, the floor, or another player.
THE RESULT
The head pitches forward, connects with the object and stops abruptly. The forward momentum causes movement of the brain within the skull leading to an alteration of brain function, causing concussion signs and symptoms.
THE ACTION
A slip, stumble or loss of balance causes the athlete to fall and strike their head on the playing surface or ground.
THE RESULT
As the head hits the ground, forward momentum causes movement of the brain within the skull leading to an alteration of brain function, causing concussion signs and symptoms.
THE ACTION
The athlete is hit, resulting in a whiplash motion of the head. The head snaps toward the direction of the impact and then rotates in the opposite direction.
THE RESULT
As the head rotates and snaps away, the momentum causes movement of the brain within the skull leading to an alteration of brain function, causing concussion signs and symptoms.