Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) sustained during sports participation, also known as sport-related concussion, has received increasing attention due in large part to the growing public awareness of the risks of head injury exposure in sports and the long-term consequences of repetitive head trauma. This chapter will review the latest understanding of concussion pathophysiology and provide an up to date overview of the scientific evidence-based acute screening and detection methods available for laypersons and medical professionals providing frontline assessment for athletes. Lastly, a comprehensive summary of clinical management for recovery management and approaches for active rehabilitation will be covered.

Summary Points

  • Since detecting early signs of sports-related concussion and timely removal from play may reduce the occurrence of second concussions and continued repetitive injury, there is an essential need for understanding and implementing practical sideline tests to aid in diagnosis.
  • The K-D test assesses over half of brain pathways and several cortical areas are involved in saccadic eye movement.
  • Extensive research has demonstrated worsening in performance in concussed athletes with high sensitivity and specificity.
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