Introduction
Head injuries and concussions can occur in judo, either in training or during competitions. Due to the potentially serious consequences of injuries to the head, coaches, parents and athletes must take certain precautions and should enforce strict safety measures when dealing with them.
For more information, please see the Judo Canada concussion flyer:
Judo Canada Concussion Flyer [PDF]
Concussion 101: A Primer for Kids and Parents
Concussion Management and Return to Learn
To view or download any of the following forms or documents, please click on the link associated with the document.
Judo Manitoba Pre-season Education Sheet [PDF]
How can I help prevent concussions and their consequences?
Concussion prevention, recognition and management requires athletes to follow the rules and regulations of their sport, respect their opponents, avoid head contact, and report suspected concussions.
Step 1: Concussion Recognition Tool – CRT5
Head impacts can be associated with serious and potentially fatal brain injuries. The Concussion Recognition Tool 5 is to be used for the identification of suspected concussion. It is not designed to diagnose concussion.
Step 2: Medical Assessment
If a Certified Athletic Therapist, Physiotherapist or Medical Doctor trained in SCAT5/Child SCAT5 is at the tournament or workout and able to perform a sideline assessment and determine that a concussion is not suspected, then the athlete can return to sport.
However, if a concussion is suspected, the athlete needs to see a Physician or Nurse Practitioner and have the Medical Assessment Tool completed.
This document can be used by an athlete’s Physician or Nurse Practitioner as the official “Medical Assessment Tool”.
Step 3: Medical Clearance
Athletes who are diagnosed with a concussion should be managed according to the Canadian Guideline on Concussion in Sport including the Return-to-School and Return-to-Sport Strategies. No athlete that has been diagnosed and is being treated for a concussion can be “returned to play” without presenting the Medical Clearance Letter [PDF].
Step 4: Return to Sport
A concussion is a serious event, but you can recover fully from such an injury if the brain is given enough time to rest and recuperate. Returning to normal activities, including sport participation, is a step-wise process that requires patience, attention, and caution.
Links:
Judo Canada concussion protocol [PDF]
Sport Manitoba concussion page
