CRISP - Concussion
The most recent CRISP data on head injuries has shown that concussions account for 14% of all time-loss injuries. While the rate in of concussion in community rugby is lower than in the elite game, at least one medical attendance is made for every team per match for any type of head injury. This highlights the fact that pitch side staff should be trained to recognise potentially serious head injuries.
RFU 'Headcase'
HEADCASE is an RFU resource to raise awareness of best practice with respect to concussion. HEADCASE resources highlight how to recognise the signs and symptoms of concussion with guidelines referring to the prevention and management. The HEADCASE website contains resources outlining the roles and responsibilities of individuals involved in rugby union including coaches, match officials, healthcare professionals and players.
Concussion and returning to play
Suspected concussion injuries should be taken very seriously. World Rugby have guidelines for concussion diagnosis and management. While the diagnosis is still made by a medical practitioner, the new guidelines allow a graduated return to play protocol whereby through the re-introduction of training without any further concussion symptoms, the player may return to match play after six days. The graduated return to play may only be implemented under the supervision of a medical practitioner. If this is not possible the injured player may not return in less than 19 days after the injury event.
