Pediatric & Adolescent Concussions: What Parents Need to Know
Concussions are one of the most common injuries in children and teenagers especially for those involved in sports, physical education, and active play. While many concussions recover well, early recognition and proper management are critical to prevent prolonged symptoms and long-term issues.
At Better Beyond Rehab, we work closely with children, adolescents, and families to guide safe recovery.
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What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head, face, neck, or body that results in a rapid movement of the brain inside the skull. Importantly, a child does not need to lose consciousness to have a concussion.
Common causes include:
• Sports collisions (hockey, soccer, football, basketball)
• Falls (playgrounds, biking, skating)
• Motor vehicle collisions
• Recreational activities (skiing, snowboarding)
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Common Concussion Symptoms in Kids & Teens
Concussion symptoms can vary and may not appear immediately. Children and adolescents may experience:
Physical Symptoms
• Headache or pressure in the head
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Fatigue
Cognitive Symptoms
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering
• Feeling “foggy” or slowed down
• Trouble with schoolwork
Emotional & Behavioral Symptoms
• Irritability or mood changes
• Anxiety or sadness
• Changes in sleep (sleeping more or less than usual)
💡 Younger children may not be able to describe symptoms clearly, so changes in behavior, play, or school performance are important clues.
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When Should a Child Be Seen by a Professional?
A child or teen should be assessed by a healthcare professional if they:
• Have any concussion symptoms after a head injury
• Have worsening headaches or symptoms
• Are struggling to return to school or sports
• Have had multiple concussions
Early assessment helps rule out more serious injury and allows for safe, structured recovery.
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Rest Is Important—but So Is Active Rehabilitation
Outdated advice often recommended prolonged rest in a dark room. We now know that strict rest for too long can delay recovery.
Current best practice includes:
• A brief period of physical and cognitive rest (24–48 hours)
• Gradual, guided return to school and activity
• Targeted rehabilitation based on symptoms
This may include:
• Vestibular (balance) therapy
• Vision and eye-tracking exercises
• Neck (cervical spine) assessment and treatment
• Controlled return-to-exercise programs
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Return to School & Sport: Why a Plan Matters
Children and adolescents should never return to sport while symptomatic. A step-wise, supervised return-to-play protocol reduces the risk of:
• Prolonged symptoms
• Repeat concussion
• More serious brain injury
Equally important is a return-to-learn plan, which may include temporary school accommodations such as reduced workload, extra time for assignments, or rest breaks.
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Why Pediatric-Focused Concussion Care Is Different
Children’s brains are still developing, which means:
• Symptoms can last longer than in adults
• They may need more support at school
• Management must be individualized and age-appropriate
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When to Seek Emergency Care
Seek immediate medical attention if a child has:
• Worsening headache
• Repeated vomiting
• Seizures
• Increasing confusion or agitation
• Difficulty waking or unusual drowsiness
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The Bottom Line
Most children and adolescents recover fully from a concussion, especially when managed early and properly. Recognizing symptoms, avoiding premature return to activity, and engaging in evidence-based rehabilitation are key to a smooth recovery.
If your child has had a head injury or is struggling after a concussion, early assessment can make all the difference.
📍 Better Beyond Rehab offers pediatric and adolescent concussion assessment, rehabilitation, and return-to-sport guidance.
