The return to play strategy is gradual, and begins after a doctor has given the player clearance to return to activity. If any symptoms/signs return during this process, the player must be re-evaluated by a physician. No return to play if any symptoms or signs persist. Remember, symptoms may return later that day or the next, not necessarily when exercising!
IMPORTANT - CONSULT WITH THE TREATING PHYSICIAN ON RETURN TO LEARN PROTOCOLS. PLAYERS SHOULD HAVE THE ABILITY TO RETURN TO SCHOOL FULL TIME PRIOR TO PROCEEDING THROUGH STEPS 5 AND 6 OF THE RETURN TO PLAY STRATEGY.
IMPORTANT - FOLLOWING A CONCUSSION AND PRIOR TO STEP 1 A BRIEF PERIOD OF PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REST IS RECOMMENDED.
STEP 1 Light activities of daily living which do not aggravate symptoms or make symptoms worse. Once tolerating step 1 without symptoms and signs, proceed to step 2 as directed by your physician.
STEP 2 Light aerobic exercise, such as walking or stationary cycling. Monitor for symptoms and signs. No resistance training or weight lifting.
STEP 3 Sport specific activities and training (e.g. skating).
STEP 4 Drills without body contact. May add light resistance training and progress to heavier weights. The time needed to progress from non-contact to contact exercise will vary with the severity of the concussion and the player. Go to step 5 after medical clearance (reassessment and written note).
STEP 5 Begin drills with body contact.
STEP 6 Game play. (The earliest a concussed athlete should return to play is one week.)
Note: Players should proceed through the return to play steps only when they do not experience symptoms or signs and the physician has given clearance. Each step should be a minimum of one day (but could last longer depending on the player and the situation). If symptoms or signs return, the player should return to step 2 and be re-evaluated by a physician.
IMPORTANT - Young players and some adults will require a more conservative treatment. Return to play guidelines should be guided by the treating physician.
HOCKEY CANADA CONCUSSION RESOURCES
hockeycanada.ca/concussion
PARACHUTE CANADA
parachute.ca/concussion