Understanding the NCAA Concussion Protocol: Complete Concussions’ Review

Note: This blog was generated with the assistance of AI and meticulously reviewed, edited, and updated by Dr. Mark Heisig to ensure accuracy, relevance, and a human touch.

Introduction.

As specialists in concussion management at Complete Concussions, we understand the importance of robust protocols for safeguarding athletes’ health. The NCAA Concussion Protocol offers a structured, evidence-based approach to managing sport-related concussions (SRC). While comprehensive, we’ll walk you through the details of this protocol, explaining its strengths and where additional measures could further benefit athletes, parents, and clinicians.

What Is the NCAA Concussion Protocol?

The NCAA defines a sport-related concussion as a traumatic brain injury caused by a direct blow to the head, neck, or body, resulting in an impulsive force transmitted to the brain. Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and cognitive impairments may appear immediately or develop over time. While diagnostic imaging often shows no abnormalities, clinical assessments remain vital for accurate diagnosis and management. Learn more about concussion symptoms and care.

Pre-Season Education.

Education is a foundational element of the NCAA protocol. Each year, student-athletes, coaches, and medical staff participate in concussion education to understand the risks, symptoms, and procedures associated with head injuries. Signed acknowledgments reinforce a shared commitment to athlete safety.

Pre-Participation Baseline Testing.

A key component of the NCAA protocol is baseline testing. Before the season begins, athletes undergo a pre-participation assessment, which includes:

• Symptom Evaluation: Identifying any pre-existing symptoms that could signal a concussion.
• Cognitive Testing: Utilizing tools like the SCAT6 and ImPACT to evaluate brain function.
• Balance Assessments: Measuring baseline stability for post-injury comparisons.

These assessments establish a benchmark, aiding in post-injury evaluations. However, at Complete Concussions, we take baseline testing further by integrating tools like the King-Devick Test, computerized reaction time, and balance testing for more durable and objective metrics. Explore our complete guide to baseline testing.

Recognition and Diagnosis.

When a potential concussion occurs, the NCAA protocol requires medical personnel trained in concussion management to evaluate the athlete. Signs such as loss of consciousness, confusion, or poor balance warrant immediate removal from play. Learn more about the red flags of concussion. Tools like the SCAT6 assist in diagnosing concussions accurately and promptly.

Post-Concussion Management.

The NCAA provides a structured management plan to support athletes post-concussion:

• Initial Care: Close monitoring during the first 72 hours, with serial evaluations to track symptom progression.
• Subacute Phase: Iincludes symptom assessments, cognitive testing, and tools like Vestibular Ocular Motor Screening (VOMS) to detect balance or vision impairments. Learn more about VOMS and BCTT.
• Re-Evaluation: Athletes with persistent symptoms beyond four weeks undergo reassessment to address potential complications, such as migraines or psychological factors.

Return-to-Learn (RTL).

Returning to academics is a gradual process in the NCAA protocol. A multidisciplinary team oversees this stepwise progression, which includes:

• Gradual Reintegration: Introducing academic activities incrementally.
• Environmental Adjustments: Modifying the learning environment, such as limiting screen time.
• Regular Re-Evaluations: Ensuring symptoms are managed alongside academic demands.

For tips on managing academics post-concussion, check out our Return-to-Learn Blog.

Return-to-Sport (RTS).

The NCAA’s return-to-sport protocol consists of six progressive stages:

1. Symptom-Limited Daily Activities: Non-strenuous tasks.
2. Light Aerobic Exercise: Gentle activities like walking.
3. Sport-Specific Exercises: Non-contact drills.
4. Non-Contact Practice: More dynamic drills without head impacts.
5. Full-Contact Practice: Regular practice following medical clearance.
6. Unrestricted Return to Play: Resuming full competition.

Athletes must demonstrate symptom resolution at each stage, progressing at least 24 hours per step. Discover detailed return-to-play guidelines.

Why Complete Concussions Is a Step Ahead.

While the NCAA protocol provides an excellent foundation, Complete Concussions elevates care through:

• Enhanced Baseline Testing: Improve post-injury comparisons by adding visual processing, reaction time, and balance metrics.
• Advanced Return-to-Play Metrics: Employing the Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test (BCTT) to ensure athletes tolerate sport-specific exertion safely before advancing to full play.

These additional measures reflect our commitment to providing safer, more effective concussion management for athletes at all levels.

Conclusion.

The NCAA Concussion Protocol is a vital tool for collegiate sports. It blends education, baseline testing, structured recovery, and monitoring to protect athletes. At Complete Concussions, we build upon this framework with advanced tools and individualized care, ensuring athletes recover safely and fully. For more insights, visit our Concussion Care Blog.