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At GESA we take the welfare of, and our responsibility to, our riders and racers seriously; this includes all matters relating to concussion. We follow the AusCycling Concussion Policy. The policy can be found here AusCycling Concussion Policy
What is Concussion?
Concussion is a traumatic brain injury, induced by biomechanical forces to the head, or anywhere on the body which transmits an impulsive force to the head. It causes short-lived neurological impairment and the symptoms may evolve over the hours or days following the injury. Evidence points towards a series of interrelated biochemical and physiological changes that impair neuronal function.
Rest followed by gradual return to activity is the main treatment.
Adelaide Concussion Clinic - What is Concussion
Concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury, which causes temporary brain dysfunction without associated structural damage.
The majority of concussions are not associated with loss of consciousness.
Adelaide Concussion Clinic - Cognigram Concussion Testing tool
Computer based cognition testing program (Cognigram); predicts with more certainty and therefore safety, when a rider/player is fit to return to sport.
With current concerns regarding long term harm to the brain as a result of recurrent concussion, sensible and legally prudent to use all means available to ensure a safe and medically appropriate return to riding/play.
This program is currently used at AFL level where its benefits are well established
Contact: (08) 8232 5833
Unley Concussion Clinic
Comprehensive concussion baseline assessments for athletes of all levels, schools, workplaces, or anyone who may be at risk of a concussion and seeks to be proactive in concussion management. Assessments provide physiotherapists with a baseline measure of current function, to then allow for easy reassessment and comparison of suspected concussion.
Concussion baseline assessments take up to 20 minutes to complete and look at
Concussion and medical history
Balance (static, dynamic and dual task)
Coordination and reaction time
Visual assessment – utilizing NeuroFlex® technology
The nature of these assessments means they can be completed anywhere – whether this is at their Unley Clinic, a sports club, work place or school for convenience.
Enquire about Concussion Baseline Assessments or to book baseline assessment via email or call (08) 8373 2132
https://www.yourbrainhealth.net/your-brain-health-network
Advice should be given to ALL riders under or over 18
Return to Racing
ALL RIDERS require medical clearance to attend events again
Head injury advice should be given to all riders with concussion and to their carer(s).
Any rider with suspected or confirmed concussion should remain in the company of a responsible adult and not be allowed to drive.
They should be advised to avoid alcohol and check medications with their doctor. Specifically, they should avoid aspirin, non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs, sleeping tablets and sedating pain medications.
Once the diagnosis of concussion has been made, immediate management is physical and cognitive rest. This may include time off school or work and relative rest from cognitive activity. Having rested for 24-48 hours after sustaining a concussion, the patient can commence a return to light intensity physical activity under medical guidance, as long as such activity does not cause a significant and sustained deterioration in symptoms. The majority of concussive symptoms should resolve in 7-10 days.
A suspected/confirmed concussed rider must obtain a medical clearance from a qualified medical doctor before returning to to any cycling activities.
It is the rider’s/parent’s responsibility to ensure that the rider is medically cleared before returning to cycling activities.
An AusCycling Incident Report must be sent to AusCycling by coach (training) or Commissaire (event) using the ‘Incident Report Form’ via email to membership@auscycling.org.au
AusCycling will record the concussion on the individuals members profile and they will be medically suspended from all activities until medical clearance is received.
Once clearance received by the rider/parent it is to be emailed to membership@auscycling.org.au
Upon receipt of the medical clearance, AusCycling will remove the suspended members medical list and the individual will be permitted to return to all activities.
Relevant Resources
https://sma.org.au/resources-advice/concussion/
https://www.concussioninsport.gov.au/home