Concussions: Prevalence Among Student Athletes

Abstract

The effects of sport-related concussions (SRC) can be dire for student-athletes. They may have an impact on their performance, health, and mental well-being. The primary focus of this thesis is to explore the diverse consequences; both short-term and long-term of SRC. 4 The study explores an acute dip in physical endurance and psychological performance after suffering one concussion, the cumulative effect when multiple concussions occur, as well as the potential oflong-term neurodegenerative diseases. It also examines the difficult recovery procedures of patients. Along with this, we examine the long-term effects that survivors deal with, and the complex ways in which brain injuries affect each individual differently. In addition to examining the effects of SRC on athletes, this study investigates these types of injuries in the field of physical education. The hope is that the information will provide coaches with the required means for making sports and other physical activities safer and more inclusive to those recovering athletes. Furthermore, accounts of athletic trainers are examined, and concussions are investigated from their perspective. Finally, the challenge in deciding when and how to safely return the athlete back to participation. This thesis, therefore, aims to carefully evaluate SRC across various dimensions and their influence on student-athletes. The means through which this thesis can contribute to deeper comprehension of the topic and, accordingly, put forward strategies for personalizing safety, optimizing recovery, and improving the well-being in the sphere of youth sports will be discussed.