Spring Sports & Concussions: What to Watch for After a Head Injury
Springtime in Texas means baseball under the big blue sky, soccer matches on freshly cut grass, and weekend bike rides with family. It’s a season of fun and competition, but also one where sports injuries – especially concussions – are a real concern. Knowing the signs of a concussion and what to do after a head injury can help keep athletes of all ages safe and in the game.
What Happens During a Concussion?
A concussion happens when a hit or sudden jolt makes the brain move inside the skull. This can happen from a direct impact, a hard fall, or even a body blow that snaps the head forward or sideways. The sudden movement can shake up brain function, causing symptoms that might appear right away or show up hours later. That’s why it’s important to know what to watch for.
How Spring Sports Can Lead to Concussions
Sports are a big part of life in Texas, and while they build teamwork and discipline, they also come with risks. Here’s how concussions can happen in some of the most popular spring sports:
- Baseball & Softball – A line drive to the helmet, a collision at home plate, or a fall while sliding into base can lead to head injuries.
- Soccer – Heading the ball, accidental player collisions, or a bad fall can cause a concussion.
- Track & Field – High-speed events like hurdles or pole vaulting can result in falls that put the head at risk.
- Cycling & Skateboarding – Spring brings more time outdoors, but riding without a helmet or falling on pavement can lead to serious injuries.
Signs That Something’s Wrong
Concussions aren’t always obvious. Sometimes, an athlete can get up and keep playing without realizing anything is wrong – until later. Symptoms can start right after impact or show up hours or even days later. That’s why parents, coaches, and teammates should stay alert.
Here are some of the most common signs:
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurry vision or sensitivity to light
- Difficulty concentrating or feeling “foggy”
- Mood swings, irritability, or feeling down
- Trouble sleeping or feeling overly tired
If a child, teen, or adult seems “off” after a head injury, it’s best to have them checked by a doctor – even if they say they feel fine.
What to Do After a Head Injury
If you think someone has a concussion, here’s what to do:
- Take them out of the game – Don’t let them keep playing. Another hit before they heal can cause serious harm.
- Watch for symptoms – Even if they seem okay, keep an eye out for signs of a concussion in the next 24-48 hours.
- See a doctor – A medical professional can assess the injury and provide the right guidance.
- Encourage rest – Both physical and mental rest are important.
- Follow up – If symptoms get worse or new ones appear, seek medical care right away.
How Long Does It Take to Recover?
Most concussions heal within a few weeks, but recovery depends on the person. Kids and teens may take longer since their brains are still developing.
- For athletes, a doctor may recommend a step-by-step plan before returning to play. Rushing back too soon can increase the risk of another concussion.
- For students, schools might need to adjust workloads, such as reducing homework or extending deadlines.
If symptoms linger for weeks or months, it may be a sign of post-concussion syndrome, which requires further medical attention.
Preventing Concussions in Spring Sports
No sport is completely risk-free, but these steps can help reduce the chance of a concussion:
- Wear the right gear – Helmets and protective equipment should fit properly and always be worn.
- Teach safe techniques – Learning how to tackle, slide, or head the ball safely can reduce injury risk.
- Follow the rules – Enforcing fair play and safety rules can prevent dangerous situations.
- Check the playing field – Look for uneven surfaces, obstacles, or anything that could cause a dangerous fall.
When to Seek Emergency Care
In some cases, a concussion requires immediate medical attention. Go to the ER if the injured person:
- Loses consciousness, even for a moment
- Has a worsening headache
- Vomits multiple times
- Has a seizure or convulsion
- Seems very confused or has trouble speaking
- Is extremely drowsy or struggles to wake up
- Has weakness or numbness in their arms or legs
At Physicians Premier, we provide expert medical care when you need it most. Our team is available 24/7 to treat head injuries and ensure a safe recovery.
Keeping Young Athletes Safe This Spring
Spring sports bring excitement, teamwork, and community spirit, but safety should always come first. Recognizing the signs of a concussion, taking quick action, and ensuring proper recovery can help keep athletes in the game – and out of long-term trouble.
If you or a loved one experiences a head injury or other sports injuries, Physicians Premier is here to help. Our expert team is available 24/7 to provide the care you need. Find a location near you and play it safe this season!
Sources:
“Signs and Symptoms of Concussion,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/heads-up/signs-symptoms/index.html
“Responding to a Sports-related Concussion,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/heads-up/response/index.html
“Returning to Sports,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/heads-up/guidelines/returning-to-sports.html
“Concussion Recovery: A Guide to Complete Healing,” Very Well Health, https://www.verywellhealth.com/concussion-recovery-8701979
“10 Suggestions to Help Prevent Concussions in Sports,” CognitiveFX, https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/blog/suggestions-to-prevent-concussion-in-sports
“Concussion,” Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/concussion/symptoms-causes/syc-20355594
