Navigating Concussions in Sports: Insights from an Athletic Trainer

In this episode of the Sports Pharmacy Podcast, Kaleigh Steelman and Katie Evenson discuss the complexities of concussions in athletes, including mechanisms, symptoms, and management strategies. Katie emphasizes the importance of immediate assessment, the role of sleep and nutrition in recovery, and the need for collaborative care among healthcare professionals and Kaleigh follows with a deep dive on the medications that can be used to manage post-concussive symptoms and medications that may exacerbate post-concussive symptoms The conversation also covers the evolving guidelines for return to play protocols and the significance of exercise in rehabilitation.Find Katie @katietheatc on Instagram and TikTokSports Pharmacy Network https://sportsrxnetwork.com@sportsrxnetwork on Instagram Chapters00:00 Introduction to Concussions02:49 Understanding Concussions: Definition and Mechanism05:18 Symptoms and Diagnosis of Concussions07:51 Pathophysiology of Concussions09:35 Management and Recovery from Concussions11:56 Return to Play Protocols14:33 Vestibular Symptoms and Rehabilitation17:21 Referral and Specialist Involvement21:12 Return to Play Protocols23:33 Medication Management in Concussions33:47 Medications Worsening Cognitive Impairment41:34 Collaboration in Concussion CareKeywords: concussion, athletic training, sports medicine, recovery, symptoms, management, exercise, medication, healthcare team, vestibular therapy