Sports Concussion

Our physician providers in the UR Medicine Concussion Program provide care for both recreational and competitive athletes of all ages.  You can get a concussion from an accidental hit to the head, a fall, or through normal play—by head-butting the ball in soccer or volleyball, for example. 

What to Expect

Some concussion symptoms will only last an hour or two and others may last a week or more. If you have a suspected concussion, you should see your doctor or make an appointment with a physician in our UR Medicine Concussion Program for further evaluation as soon as possible.

After we review all symptoms and perform an examination, we'll determine if any further tests, such as a MRI scan, are necessary.

Because sports-related concussions may be treated in a variety of ways, our physicians will develop the most appropriate care plan tailored to your individual needs. Our physicians have a long history of clinical and translational research with concussion patients and continue to actively research better ways to diagnose and treat the condition.

Examples of tests that may be performed include:

• Evaluation of balance using the Balance Error Scoring
• Evaluation of dizziness with Vestibulo-oculomotor screen (VOMS)
• Advanced brain imaging with MRI, susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)

UR Medicine Athletic trainers work closely with high schools and colleges in the area to provide immediate care for sports injuries during practices or games. They also triage concussions and work collaboratively with UR Medicine physicians to coordinate care on behalf of the athletes. Our physicians are also the official team doctors for our local professional teams.

Concussion Facts & Guidelines

• Concussion Fact Sheet
• Return to Learn Concussion Guidelines