Reducing Risk of Re-Injury

Prior concussion increases the risk for future concussions. However, your risk of concussion is still low unless you perform a lot of high-risk activities (e.g. contact sports).

Many people enjoy activities that carry some risk. Having a concussion doesn’t mean you can never do such activities. There are things you can do to reduce your risk of another concussion.

• Wear a well-fitting helmet on skis, snowboards, horses, bicycles, motorcycles, and during high-speed sports. Helmets don’t prevent concussions, but they reduce the risk of skull fractures. Use the right helmet for the activity.
• Consider a low- or no-contact sport league.
• Play within your skill & fitness level.
• Use proper equipment
• Don’t play tired or intoxicated
• Get clearance from your family doctor before returning to sport after concussion

Here are some tips to reducing your risk in everyday activities.

• Wear seatbelts in vehicles
• Use stair handrails
• Limit drugs & alcohol
• Be careful in bad weather
• Use non-slip mats in the tub and on bathroom floors

If you don’t already own a properly fitting helmet for high-speed activity you engage in, consider making an action plan to purchase one.