Concussions and Hockey: How to Navigate After a Head Injury

Guest Blog By
Michael Palm, MS, MBA, ATC

While there has been an increased awareness around concussions over the past few years, the information surrounding concussions has been misunderstood. The period of time it takes to return to the ice after a concussion can be a lengthy journey at times, and it is no longer considered an injury that athletes can just “shake off”.

A great first step for parents to be proactive in their hockey player’s health is to receive a baseline test before the season. This test provides medical professionals a benchmark to reference after an athlete sustains a concussion. The information gathered is used to help better understand when it is safe for an athlete to return after a concussion. Athletico together with Amateur Hockey Association Illinois (AHAI), the Chicago Blackhawks, and NorthShore HealthSystem make baseline testing free and accessible to youth hockey players aged 13-18 through the A Step aHead Program. As a part of this program, these athletes can have an ImPACT test, which is a 30-minute computerized examination that requires them to perform tasks that measure memory, reaction time, and processing speed.


Even with precautions, head injuries occur in hockey. When they do, athletic trainers are the first step to proper management of a concussion. They can immediately assess the child and determine the required next actions.  Regardless of symptoms, no athlete should ever return to play when displaying signs or symptoms of a concussion until evaluated by a licensed healthcare professional.

Typical symptoms of a concussion consist of headache, dizziness, confusion, fatigue, and “not feeling right”.  However, sometimes these symptoms persist past the normal recovery time for a concussion. In these instances, physicians can recommend a specific type of therapy known as vestibular physical therapy, in which patients perform exercises that improve balance, eye movement, and improve overall stability. These types of exercises are performed under the direction of a specially trained vestibular physical therapist.

Remember, there is no such thing as a minor head injury. Symptoms may become worse with exertion, so it is critical to consult a medical professional as soon as possible.


Athletico also provides complimentary injury screenings to help people manage concussions and other health problems, and also help in recommending next appropriate steps. Visit www.athletico.com to check out the many services offered and conditions treated.

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