How does selective head-neck cooling impact return-to-play time for concussed ice hockey players. What are the latest developments in traumatic brain injury management. How can we improve acute care for sports-related concussions in elite athletes. What role does medical imaging play in understanding mild traumatic brain injuries.

The Epidemiology of Concussions in Ice Hockey

Concussions in ice hockey have become a significant concern for players, coaches, and medical professionals alike. The high-impact nature of the sport, combined with its fast-paced gameplay, creates an environment where traumatic brain injuries are all too common.

A cohort study spanning 29 seasons revealed an alarming trend in concussion rates among ice hockey players. The research highlighted the urgent need for improved acute management of sports-related concussions, particularly in elite athletes.

Incidence Rates and Risk Factors

How prevalent are concussions in ice hockey? Studies have shown that concussion rates in ice hockey are among the highest in team sports. The National Hockey League (NHL) and NHL Players’ Association Concussion Program conducted a prospective study that shed light on the frequency of concussions during regular season games.

• Elite players are at higher risk due to increased speed and physicality of play
• Position on the ice can influence concussion risk, with forwards often experiencing higher rates
• Body checking and player-to-player contact are primary mechanisms of injury

International tournaments and Olympic events have also been scrutinized for concussion incidents. A 7-year study of the International Ice Hockey Federation Adult World Championship Tournaments and Olympic Winter Games provided valuable data on injury patterns and frequency.

Understanding the Neurometabolic Cascade of Concussion

When a player suffers a concussion, a complex series of neurochemical and neurometabolic events unfolds within the brain. This process, known as the neurometabolic cascade, can have both immediate and long-term effects on brain function.

The Biochemical Response to Brain Trauma

What happens in the brain immediately after a concussion? The impact triggers a rapid release of neurotransmitters, leading to an ionic flux and energy crisis within brain cells. This initial phase is followed by a period of metabolic vulnerability, during which the brain is particularly susceptible to further injury.

Research has identified key enzymes and metabolic pathways affected by traumatic brain injury:

1. Pyruvate dehydrogenase complex
2. Tricarboxylic acid cycle enzymes
3. Electron transport chain components

These metabolic disturbances can persist for days or even weeks after the initial injury, underscoring the importance of proper rest and recovery protocols.

The Role of Medical Imaging in Concussion Diagnosis

Advancements in medical imaging technology have revolutionized our understanding of mild traumatic brain injuries. Traditional neuroimaging techniques often fail to detect the subtle changes associated with concussions, leading researchers to explore new methods for visualizing brain trauma.

Emerging Imaging Modalities

How can medical imaging improve concussion diagnosis and management? Cutting-edge techniques such as functional MRI (fMRI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and magnetoencephalography (MEG) are providing unprecedented insights into the structural and functional changes that occur following a concussion.

These advanced imaging modalities allow researchers and clinicians to:

• Detect microstructural changes in white matter tracts
• Assess alterations in brain network connectivity
• Identify subtle changes in cerebral blood flow and metabolism

By leveraging these technologies, medical professionals can develop more accurate diagnostic criteria and tailor treatment plans to individual patients’ needs.

Innovative Treatment Approaches: Selective Head-Neck Cooling

One of the most promising developments in concussion management is the use of selective head-neck cooling. This novel approach has shown significant potential in shortening return-to-play times for concussed ice hockey players.

The Science Behind Cooling Therapy

Why is temperature control crucial in managing traumatic brain injuries? Research has demonstrated that hyperthermia can exacerbate the neurological outcomes in patients with severe traumatic brain injury. Conversely, selective brain cooling has been found to facilitate clinical symptom resolution and improve cerebral function in the acute phase of sports-related concussions.

The benefits of selective head-neck cooling include:

• Reduction of intracranial pressure
• Mitigation of secondary injury mechanisms
• Preservation of neuronal tissue
• Acceleration of metabolic recovery

A groundbreaking study explored the neurobiological effects of selective brain cooling after concussive injury, providing valuable insights into the potential of this treatment modality.

Long-Term Consequences of Recurrent Concussions

While immediate management of concussions is crucial, the long-term effects of repeated brain trauma remain a significant concern for athletes and medical professionals alike.

Cognitive Impairment and Neurodegenerative Risks

Can multiple concussions lead to lasting cognitive problems? Research involving retired professional football players has shown an association between recurrent concussions and late-life cognitive impairment. This finding has important implications for ice hockey players, who may experience multiple concussions throughout their careers.

Potential long-term consequences of recurrent concussions include:

• Increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases
• Persistent post-concussion syndrome
• Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)
• Memory and attention deficits

Longitudinal studies have revealed that not all individuals fully recover from concussions, emphasizing the need for comprehensive long-term follow-up and support for affected athletes.

Improving Acute Management and Return-to-Play Protocols

Effective acute management of concussions is critical for minimizing long-term consequences and ensuring safe return-to-play for athletes. Recent research has highlighted the importance of prompt recognition and appropriate response to concussive injuries.

The Impact of Delayed Reporting and Removal

How does playing through a concussion affect recovery time? Studies have shown that delayed reporting and removal from athletic activity after a concussion can significantly prolong recovery. This finding underscores the need for improved education and awareness among players, coaches, and medical staff.

Key components of effective acute management include:

1. Immediate removal from play upon suspicion of concussion
2. Thorough neurological assessment using standardized tools
3. Implementation of appropriate rest and recovery protocols
4. Gradual return-to-play progression guided by symptom resolution

By adhering to these principles and incorporating innovative treatments like selective head-neck cooling, medical professionals can optimize outcomes for concussed athletes.

Future Directions in Concussion Research and Management

As our understanding of concussions continues to evolve, new avenues for research and treatment are emerging. The field of traumatic brain injury management is poised for significant advancements in the coming years.

Personalized Medicine and Biomarker Discovery

How can we tailor concussion treatment to individual patients? The future of concussion management lies in personalized medicine approaches. Researchers are exploring biomarkers that could help predict recovery trajectories and guide treatment decisions.

Promising areas of future research include:

• Genetic factors influencing concussion susceptibility and recovery
• Advanced neuroimaging techniques for precise injury characterization
• Novel pharmacological interventions targeting specific aspects of the neurometabolic cascade
• Wearable technology for real-time monitoring of brain function during sports activities

By integrating these diverse approaches, researchers and clinicians hope to develop more effective strategies for preventing, diagnosing, and treating concussions in ice hockey and other high-risk sports.

The field of concussion management in ice hockey is rapidly evolving, with new insights and treatment modalities emerging regularly. As we continue to unravel the complexities of traumatic brain injuries, it is clear that a multidisciplinary approach combining cutting-edge research, advanced medical technologies, and evidence-based clinical practices will be essential for safeguarding the health and well-being of athletes at all levels of competition.

Selective head–neck cooling after concussion shortens return-to-play in ice hockey players

Papers of special note have been highlighted as: • of interest

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Head injuries and concussion – Better Health Channel

Summary

Read the full fact sheet

• Always seek medical attention for a head injury.
• There is no specific treatment for mild head injury other than plenty of rest and not overdoing things. It can take some time for the brain to recover from a head injury and during this time, headaches, dizziness and mild cognitive (thought) problems are common.
• Don’t go to work or school, or resume sporting activity until you have fully recovered.

About head injuries and concussion

Any knock to the head is considered a head injury.

The hard skull and facial bones protect the brain, which is a soft organ. If the skull is injured, then the brain becomes more vulnerable.

When someone has a knock to the head, the brain moves about and can knock against the skull and facial bones. This type of injury may cause the brain to swell and even bleed.

The most common type of head injury is concussion. Concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury which alters the way the brain functions, usually temporarily.

Concussion may or may not include loss of consciousness (blackout). The loss of consciousness is often brief and is normally followed by a rapid and complete recovery.

Always seek medical attention for a head injury.

Signs and symptoms of concussion include:

• loss of consciousness after trauma to the head
• confusion
• headache
• nausea or vomiting
• dizziness
• blurred vision
• loss of short-term memory
• saying the same thing repetitively.

First aid for concussion

If you think someone may have concussion, use the following steps:

1. Check to make sure the scene is safe.
2. Check for loss of consciousness.
3. If the person is unconscious, check their airway and breathing.
4. Do not move the person unless absolutely necessary.
5. Check the person’s mental awareness.
6. Check the person’s eyes.
7. Watch for vomiting.
8. Keep the person awake for a period of time to see if their condition gets worse.
9. Be aware that complaints can subside only to appear later on and be worse.
10. Be aware that children can become worse very quickly.

In an emergency, always call triple zero (000).

Treatment for a head injury and concussion

Anyone suspected of having concussion should be assessed by a doctor.

While in the emergency department at hospital, you can expect:

• observation
• mild painkillers for any headache
• to have nothing to eat or drink until further advised
• anti-nausea tablets for any nausea or vomiting
• an x-ray of the neck, if you have any neck pain
• a CT scan, if needed
• for a mild head injury, to be discharged home with family or friends. Ask for a certificate for work, if needed.

Taking care of yourself at home

Be guided by your doctor, but self-care suggestions include:

• Don’t drive home from the hospital. Ask someone to give you a lift or catch a taxi.
• Rest quietly for the day.
• Use icepacks over any swollen or painful area.
• Take simple painkillers such as paracetamol for any headache. Check the packet for the right dose.
• Arrange for someone to stay with you for the next 24 hours, in case you need help.
• Don’t eat or drink for the first 6 to 12 hours, unless advised otherwise by the doctor.
• Once you can eat again, have small amounts of light food and drink in moderation.
• Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours.
• Don’t take sedatives or other drugs unless instructed by your doctor.
• Children are allowed to sleep, but should be woken every 4 hours to check their condition and gauge their reaction to familiar things.

What to expect after a head injury and concussion

There is no specific treatment for mild head injury other than plenty of rest and not overdoing things. Keep in mind that:

• It is common to not be able to remember the events surrounding the head injury.
• It is normal to feel more tired than usual.
• It can take some time for the brain to recover from a head injury. During this time, headaches, dizziness and mild cognitive (thought) problems are common.
• Brain function problems can include mood changes and difficulties with concentrating, remembering things and performing complex tasks.
• Most people make a full recovery and the symptoms only last a few days.
• Some people have ongoing symptoms. If this is the case, visit your local doctor.

When to seek urgent medical care for head injuries and concussion

Seek urgent medical care if you have:

• severe headaches
• vomited more than twice
• memory problems
• blackouts
• a seizure (fit or spasm of arms, legs or face)
• difficulty staying awake
• blood or clear fluid coming from your ears or nose
• neck stiffness
• numbness, tingling, pins and needles, or weakness in your arms or legs
• confusion, slurred speech or unusual behaviour
• blurred or double vision
• dizziness
• a high temperature, which may indicate the presence of infection
• any other concerns.

Resuming activities after a head injury and concussion

It is best to wait until you are feeling better before you go back to your normal activities. Don’t go to work or school until you have fully recovered. The length of time to wait varies, as it depends on the type of work or study that you do and how severe the head injury was. Ask your doctor for advice.

Don’t return to sport until all symptoms have gone and you are feeling better. This is because reaction times and thinking will often be slower, so you are at risk of further injury. If you have another head injury before you have fully recovered, this may be even worse than the first head injury.

A second concussion that occurs before your brain recovers from the first – usually within a short period of time (hours, days or weeks) – can slow recovery or increase the likelihood of having long-term problems.

In rare cases, repeat concussions can result in brain swelling (oedema), permanent brain damage and even death.

Where to get help

• In an emergency, always call triple zero (000)
• Your GP (doctor)
• Emergency department of your nearest hospital
• BrainLinkExternal Link

• ConcussionExternal Link, eMedicineHealth.

This page has been produced in consultation with and approved
by:

injury features and medical advice

Contents

• 1 Concussion: injury specifics and medical advice for a quick recovery
  • 1.1 What is a concussion?
  • 1.2 How does a concussion occur?
  • 1.3 Symptoms of a concussion
  • 1.4 How to quickly detect a concussion?
  • 1.5 Diagnosing a concussion
  • 1.6 Consequences of a concussion
  • 1.7 Treating a concussion: doctor’s advice
    • 1.7.1 Rest and rest
    • 1.7.2 Pain and headache
    • 1.7.3 Control of symptoms
    • 1.7.4 Nutrition and hydration
    • 1.7.5 Withdrawal from active activities

    90 031

    • 1. 8 How to prevent jarring brain
      • 1.8.1 Wear a safety helmet
      • 1.8.2 Remember to buckle up
      • 1.8.3 Stay safe
      • 1.8.4 Take care of your health
    • 1.9 Quick return to active life after a concussion
    • 1.10 Why go to the doctor if you suspect a concussion?
    • 1.11 How long does it take to recover from a concussion?
    • 1.12 Related videos:
    • 1.13 Q&A:
      • • 1.13.0.1 What is a concussion?
        • 1.13.0.2 Why is concussion dangerous?
        • 1.13.0.3 How is a concussion diagnosed?
        • 1.13.0.4 What to do if you have had a concussion?
        • 1.13.0.5 How to treat a concussion?
        • 1.13.0.6 How to avoid a concussion?

  Find out what to do if you have a concussion and how to care for a casualty. Get medical advice and learn the specifics of the injury.

  Concussion is one of the most common brain injuries that often occurs in athletes and people involved in vigorous activities. This is an injury that can have serious consequences for a person’s health if left unaddressed.

  A concussion is damage to brain tissue due to impact or violent shaking of the head. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, weakness, lethargy, changes in vision or hearing, difficulty in concentration and memory. Concussions can vary in severity, from mild to severe.

  Diagnosis of concussion requires appropriate tests, including symptom assessment, coordination and balance tests, and neurological tests. Treatment may include rest, medication, and a variety of other activities depending on the severity of the injury.

  It is important to remember that a concussion is a serious injury that must be examined and treated under the guidance of a qualified physician.

  What is a concussion?

  Concussion is a head injury that occurs when the head is subjected to a strong blow or sharp turn. As a result, deformations occur in the brain that can damage nerve cells. The main symptoms of a concussion are headache, nausea, vomiting, and severe incoordination.

  Concussion is an injury that requires immediate medical attention. In particular, doctors recommend immediately seeking help if the victim has a severe fall or severe head injury. It is important to conduct a brain examination to make sure there are no serious consequences.

  Often concussion occurs in people involved in sports. Boxers, football players and hockey players are the main risk group. It is recommended to use protection when playing sports to prevent head injury.

  • Concussion Facts:
  • This is the most common form of head injury.
  • Concussion symptoms may appear immediately after the injury or some time later.
  • In some cases, a concussion can lead to serious consequences, including loss of consciousness.

  Concussion is a serious injury that requires medical intervention and long recovery. Follow your doctor’s advice and wear protective gear when playing sports to reduce the risk of head injury.

  How does a concussion occur?

  A concussion is an injury to the head that occurs when the head is struck or shaken hard. These exposures can cause temporary disruption of the brain, which manifests itself in the form of various symptoms.

  The internal mechanisms leading to concussion are related to changes in brain movement inside the skull. When struck or concussed, the brain can move relative to the skull, resulting in a change in electrical activity in the brain.

  The main symptoms of a concussion include headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, blurred vision and hearing, changes in appetite and mood. If you experience these symptoms after a blow or concussion, you should see a doctor for advice and treatment.

  To avoid a concussion, it is recommended that you wear safety helmets when playing active sports, follow the rules of the road, and be careful when walking on ice or slippery surfaces.

  1. Findings:
  2. Concussion occurs when the head is hit hard or shaken
  3. Even a light blow can cause a concussion
  4. Symptoms of a concussion may include headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, visual and hearing impairment, changes in appetite and mood
  5. To avoid a concussion, wear safety helmets, follow traffic rules and be careful on slippery surfaces.

  Symptoms of a concussion

  A concussion is a head injury that often does not show up right away. You may feel some symptoms a little later. Symptoms can vary and depend on the severity of the concussion. Some of the more common symptoms of a concussion include:

  • Headaches: can be severe or mild, long-term or short-term. The onset of a headache may be one of the first symptoms.
  • Dizziness: this feeling when everything starts to spin. You may feel like you are losing your balance.
  • Meteorological dependence: may increase or appear after a concussion. You may feel pain or discomfort as the pressure changes.
  • Confused state: is the feeling when you feel confused or unable to concentrate. It can be difficult to focus and remember things.
  • Nausea or vomiting: this is an unpleasant symptom that may occur after a concussion.
  • Drowsiness or fatigue: It may be difficult to stay awake or active.

  If you suspect a concussion, seek medical attention. Only an experienced physician can determine the severity of your injury and provide appropriate advice and treatment.

  How to quickly detect a concussion?

  A concussion is an injury to the head that can occur as a result of a blow to the head or strong body vibration. It may not be as noticeable as a complex bone fracture, but it can cause serious health problems in the future. Therefore, it is important to know how to detect this injury as soon as possible.

  • Measurement of pulse and blood pressure.
  • Check for symptoms.
  • Inspection for bruises and bruises on the head.

  If you see a person with multiple symptoms such as headache, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, vomiting, and others, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. It is important to remember that symptoms may not appear immediately, but several hours after the injury.

  Self-diagnosis checklist:

  Symptom How to check

  Dizziness	Ask to stand and turn in front of you, observe the reaction.
  Memory	Ask a simple question, observe the reaction.
  Consciousness	Ask to focus on you, observe the reaction.

  Remember that a concussion can be a dangerous condition, so take care of yourself and your loved ones, do not put off going to the doctor for later.

  Concussion Diagnosis

  A concussion is a serious injury with long-term consequences. To determine the presence of a concussion, it is necessary to conduct a diagnosis, which includes a number of methods and procedures.

  Electroencephalography (EEG), which shows how the brain works, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which examines the structure of the brain in detail, can be additional diagnostic methods.

  When diagnosing a concussion, it is also important to consider the circumstances of the injury and comorbidities. For this, the patient’s history, blood test and other research methods can be used.

  • In general, the diagnosis of concussion requires a comprehensive examination to identify the presence of the injury and clarify its characteristics;
  • It is important to remain calm and listen to the advice of the doctor who is doing the diagnosis;
  • Seeing a doctor in the event of a head injury or other symptoms of a concussion should not be delayed, as this can help you recover quickly and prevent possible complications.

  Sequelae of concussion

  A concussion can leave long-lasting effects, even if the injury was not serious. One of the most common results of a concussion is a migraine. Headaches can occur immediately after the injury or several days later. They may also be present for several months. In addition, patients may experience high levels of fatigue, irritability, and depression.

  Another problem associated with a concussion can be memory loss. Patients who have been traumatized may have trouble remembering new information and at the same time have poor memory for what happened in the past. In severe cases of concussion, patients may also have difficulty speaking, balance, and coordination problems.

  Of course, more serious problems can occur after a concussion, such as drowsiness and sensory disturbances. In some cases, they can be signs of more serious brain damage. It should be noted that some of the effects of a concussion may be mild and may not be noticed by patients. Every concussion should be treated as a serious injury and requires medical attention.

  Treatment of concussion: doctor’s advice

  Rest and rest

  The most important thing in the treatment of concussion is complete rest and rest in the first days after the injury. The patient is advised not to exercise, work on the computer, watch TV or play video games. During this period, it is better to lie in a quiet room, read a book or listen to music.

  Pain and headache

  Doctors may prescribe painkillers to reduce pain and headache. But before using any medication, you should consult your doctor.

  Managing symptoms

  It is important to constantly monitor the symptoms of a concussion and consult a doctor if it worsens. If vomiting, dizziness, or a general deterioration in health appear, you should immediately call an ambulance.

  Nutrition and hydration

  Proper nutrition and hydration is very important in a concussion. Doctors recommend drinking plenty of water and juices to hydrate the body. You should also avoid foods containing strong spices and alcohol.

  Withdrawal from active activities

  To avoid re-injury, patients are advised to reduce the intensity of their activities for several weeks. For example, if you are into boxing, during this period it is better to replace training with walks in the fresh air.

  How to Prevent a Concussion

  Wear a Safety Helmet

  To prevent a concussion at sports, cycling, motorcycling, snowboarding, skiing and other activities, you must wear a special safety helmet. The helmet must be properly attached and fit snugly around the head.

  Don’t forget to buckle up

  When driving, always wear your seat belt and make sure it is properly fastened. It can also be useful when traveling by bus or taxi. In the event of a fall, the belt can hold the body in position and prevent the head from hitting a hard surface.

  Observe safety rules

  When performing difficult or dangerous work, when walking on slippery surfaces, walkways, stairs, safety rules must be observed. One of the best ways to avoid a concussion is to simply avoid dangerous situations.

  Take care of your health

  Lead a healthy lifestyle, take care of your health. Avoid strong alcohol intoxication, do not use drugs. This will allow you to maintain clarity of thought and increase your chance of avoiding a head injury.

  Quick return to active life after a concussion

  A concussion is a serious injury that can lead to long-term rehabilitation if not properly treated. It is important to remember that each concussion case is unique and there is no single answer to how quickly you can return to an active life.

  However, doctors offer a few general guidelines that can help you recover quickly from an injury:

  • Stay calm and avoid physical and mental stress.
  • Get enough sleep as this helps the brain recover.
  • Maintain a healthy diet, including plenty of water, vegetables and fruits.
  • Taking medication as prescribed by a doctor – this helps to reduce the symptoms of a concussion and quickly return to normal life.

  But the most important thing is not to rush to return to your normal life. It is important to give an interval for a full recovery and not to neglect the opinion of specialists. They will help determine your readiness to return to normal life, taking into account all the features of the original trauma. A concussion is serious, but with the right treatment and rehabilitation, you can get back to a healthy life faster.

  Why go to the doctor if you suspect a concussion?

  A concussion is a serious injury with far-reaching consequences. The main reason it’s important to see a doctor if you suspect a concussion is that it’s often impossible to diagnose the injury based on symptoms or initial examination alone.

  Also, refusing to see a doctor for a concussion can lead to worsening of symptoms and other problems in the future. Therefore, be sure to seek medical attention if you suspect a concussion to prevent further complications and return to a fulfilling life.

  How long does it take to recover from a concussion?

  Concussion recovery time can depend on many factors, including the age of the victim, the extent of the injury, the presence of other hefty problems, how well the recovery process was started, and whether it is carried out exactly as prescribed by the attending physician.

  Most people recover from a concussion within days or weeks. However, for some people, the recovery process may take longer.

  It is important to understand that each concussion case is unique and requires an individual evaluation by a physician. It determines how serious the injury is and what must happen in order for the victim to return to normal health.

  If you want more accurate information about concussion recovery time, please contact your doctor. In some cases, the doctor may prescribe a personalized recovery plan to help the affected person return to health as quickly as possible.

  Related videos:

  Q&A:

  What is a concussion?

  A concussion is an injury to the head that occurs as a result of a blow or concussion to the head. This leads to temporary brain dysfunction and, depending on the severity, may be accompanied by loss of consciousness, headache, nausea and vomiting.

  Why is concussion dangerous?

  A concussion can cause a variety of effects, including impaired memory, concentration, coordination, pain in the head, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.

  How is a concussion diagnosed?

  A number of methods are used to diagnose concussion, including neuroimaging tests, balance and coordination tests, and computed tomography of the head. The final diagnosis is established by the doctor.

  What to do if you have a concussion?

  If you suspect you have had a concussion, you should contact your doctor immediately. While you are waiting for your appointment, you should rest and avoid physical and mental activities that can aggravate your symptoms.

  How to treat a concussion?

  Treatment for a concussion depends on the severity of the concussion. In mild cases, rest and pain medication may be sufficient. In more severe cases, hospitalization and drug therapy may be required.

  How to avoid a concussion?

  Precautions should be taken to avoid concussion. This includes wearing safety helmets when participating in sports or outdoor activities such as cycling or skiing. You should also avoid dangerous activities that can lead to head injury.

  How to protect your child from injuries in winter, danger of winter sports, what to do in case of injuries

  29.12.2022 29.12.2022 health

  What accidents most often happen to children on ice, slides and winter sports? What are the symptoms of a bruise, concussion and fracture? How to provide first aid and what to do next? Tells the pediatric traumatologist Vladislav Muldiyarov.

  How to protect your child from injuries in winter?

  • Teach him to fall on the ice correctly: very carefully, preferably on his side or back, but without resting on his hands.
  • Don’t forget protective sports equipment when skating, ice hockey, skiing and warming up before exercise.

  Common childhood injuries in winter

  In winter, the most common childhood injuries are bruises. Still quite often there are bruises of the soft tissues of the head and concussions of the brain, fractures of the clavicle, bones of the forearm, humerus in the area of ​​the condyles, fracture of the ankle (tuck of the foot when sliding) or sprain.

  Bruises

  Symptoms of a bruise

  A bruise, soreness at the site of injury and swelling appear when bruised. Most bruises heal within 1-2 weeks.

  What should parents do?

  The bruise will go away on its own. To help your child feel better and help the bruise heal, you can:

  • For 1-2 days, apply a cold gel, ice pack, or a bag of frozen vegetables to the injured area for 15 minutes every 1-2 hours. Between the ice (or other cold object) and the skin, be sure to put a thin towel. Refrigerate the site of injury for at least 6 hours after the injury.
  • Elevate, if possible, the bruised area above the level of the heart: helps reduce swelling.
  • In case of pain, Ibuprofen can be given to the child by age, if there are no contraindications and allergies to the components of the drug.

  Not recommended

  • Apply a warm compress or heating pad to the bruise.
  • Pierce the hematoma yourself.

  When should you see a doctor?

  • Temperature increase.
  • The child cannot move the bruised limb or walk.
  • Hematomas occur without cause or there is unusual bleeding, such as from the gums or in the urine.

  Concussion and soft tissue contusion of the head

  Concussions are more common in winter than in summer. As a rule, these are mild forms that are observed for a couple of days, and then pass on their own.

  Symptoms of a concussion

  In children, a concussion manifests itself differently than in adults: a little later and not always immediately.

  A few minutes or hours after the concussion may occur:

  • Loss of memory. Children sometimes forget what caused their trauma and what happened immediately before and after it.
  • Confusion of consciousness.
  • Headache.
  • Dizziness, balance problems.
  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Drowsiness.
  • Loss of consciousness (not very common).

  A few hours or days after a concussion, you may experience:

  • Trouble walking or talking, memory or concentration.
  • Sleep disorders.
  • Changes in mood or behavior.
  • Visual impairment.
  • Sensitivity to noise or light.

  What should parents do?

  Call an ambulance (112) or contact your local neurologist or neurosurgeon.

  Fractures and sprains

  Falling on ice, skating rinks or slides in winter, children most often break their upper limbs. The most common fractures are fractures of the clavicle, forearm bones, and transcondylar fractures. Of the fractures of the lower extremities, the most common fracture is the lateral malleolus. As a rule, this happens when the foot is twisted while sliding. At best, ligaments are damaged, and at worst, a fracture occurs.

  Fracture symptoms

  • Pain, inability to raise the arm, move the foot.
  • Curvature of the limb, change in the axis of the limb.
  • Cracking during injury.
  • Crunch when moving a limb.
  • Severe edema.
  • Subcutaneous hematoma.
  • Sharp pain with axial load.
  • Numbness or change in sensation in a limb (rare).

  Symptoms of sprain or torn ligaments

  • Pain at the site of injury, difficulty in movement.
  • Edema of the injured limb.
  • Subcutaneous hematoma.

  What should parents do?

  If a sprain, torn ligament or fracture is suspected, immobilize the limb, give the child painkillers and go to the nearest emergency room for X-ray diagnostics and examination by a traumatologist.