At Raleigh Orthopaedic, we are committed to the health and safety of young athletes. While orthopedic injuries are common in sports, concussions—also known as mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs)—present unique challenges. These injuries may result from either direct or indirect force to the head and can lead to temporary disruptions in brain function. Though often labeled as “mild,” concussions are complex injuries that may have lasting effects on the patient, their family, and broader community.
Each year, emergency departments in the U.S. report over one million visits for traumatic brain injuries, the majority of which are concussions. However, this number likely underrepresents the true incidence, as many individuals do not seek medical care after a head injury. In sports alone, an estimated 1.6 to 3.8 million concussions occur annually.
As orthopedic and sports medicine specialists, we frequently treat active children and teens, and we know that awareness and early intervention are critical. Below are four important facts to help parents, coaches, and young athletes better understand concussion risks and care.
1. Children Are More Vulnerable to Concussions Than Adults
Children’s developing bodies place them at a greater risk for concussion-related injuries. Several anatomical and physiological factors contribute to this increased susceptibility, including:
- Underdeveloped neck muscles, offering less head stabilization during impact
- A larger head-to-body ratio, leading to increased force on the brain
- Ongoing brain development, which makes brain tissue more vulnerable to trauma
Additionally, research has observed higher rates of concussion in female athletes, though the cause is still being investigated. Theories suggest differences in neck strength, hormonal factors, or reporting patterns may contribute.
2. Concussion Management in Children Requires a More Cautious Approach
Children and adolescents should not be managed the same way as adults when it comes to concussions. Their developing brains require a more conservative treatment plan. Key considerations include:
- Greater susceptibility to concussive forces
- More prolonged and severe symptoms
- Longer recovery times compared to adults
The British Journal of Sports Medicine recommends a stepwise return-to-play protocol, with a thorough symptom resolution and confirmation of cognitive baseline before resuming activities. At Raleigh Orthopaedic, our team follows evidence-based guidelines to ensure safe and personalized care for young patients.
3. Headache Is Not Always Present in a Concussion
One of the most common misconceptions about concussions is that a headache must be present for a diagnosis. In reality, many concussed children may not experience a headache at all. Symptoms can be diverse and include:
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Fatigue or lethargy
- Difficulty concentrating or reduced academic performance
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Sleep disturbances
- Nausea
Because of the varied presentation, it’s critical that any suspected head injury be evaluated by a medical professional familiar with concussion management.
4. Multiple Care Options Are Available for Concussion Evaluation
If a concussion is suspected, families often assume the emergency room is the only option. While an ER visit may be necessary in severe cases (e.g., loss of consciousness, repeated vomiting, worsening symptoms), there are other appropriate settings for evaluation:
- Primary care physicians, who know the patient’s medical history
- Sports medicine providers, particularly those with experience in concussion care
- Orthopaedic concussion specialists, who are trained to manage sports-related brain injuries and coordinate a safe return to school and play
At Raleigh Orthopaedic, our providers are well-equipped to assess and treat concussions in children and adolescents, offering both expert evaluation and personalized recovery plans.
Concussions in children and teens are serious injuries that require careful attention. At Raleigh Orthopaedic, we believe in proactive education, early diagnosis, and safe return-to-activity strategies that protect the long-term health of our young patients. If your child has experienced a head injury or is showing signs of a concussion, we encourage you to reach out to our team for a comprehensive evaluation.
Schedule an Appointment with Raleigh Orthopaedic
If you’re dealing with pain, discomfort, or an injury, don’t wait to get the care you need. Our expert team at Raleigh Orthopaedic is here to help you feel better, move better, and get back to doing what you love. Schedule an appointment online or call us at 919-781-5600 to be seen—often within 48 hours. For immediate care, we offer walk-in orthopedic urgent care services. Click here for hours and locations.
Disclaimer:Â The information on this site is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or medical judgment. Always consult a physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have about a medical condition or treatment.