Concussion Services

Heads Up on Head Injury

All concussions are serious and ignoring their symptoms is dangerous. The concussion experts at Sanford Orthopedics & Sports Medicine help you get back in the game quickly and safely.

Find a Concussion Specialist

Partner with the Sanford Concussion Program for an interdisciplinary approach to concussion care. Our experts specialize in assessing, managing and treating concussions with an emphasis on sports-related injuries.

You’ll receive care based on the most up-to-date research and latest studies. With our active approach to concussion management, you’ll get the highest level of care for a safe and prompt return to activities.

Download the Concussion Playbook.

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury caused by a blow to the head or body. This injury changes an athlete’s behavior, thinking and physical functioning.

Watch for these symptoms:

• Memory and concentration problems
• Headache
• Dizziness and balance issues
• Confusion
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Nausea or vomiting
• Double or blurry vision
• Loss of consciousness (even briefly)

Immediately pull any athlete with concussion symptoms from play. It’s better for an athlete to miss one game than a whole season.

If an athlete needs medical help for a concussion, the Sanford Orthopedics & Sports Medicine team is here to help. Our team includes physicians, neuropsychologists, physical therapists and occupational therapists – all with advanced training in concussion care.

Concussion Services Resources

Know how to help athletes stay safe during game time. Bring these concussion resources with you to the sidelines.

Download our guides for coaches, parents and athletes:

• Concussion playbook
• Pocket card for coaches
• Fact sheet for coaches
• Fact sheet for parents and athletes

What to Do in Case of a Concussion

Remove from play any athlete you suspect of having a concussion. They should rest their brain and body for 24 to 48 hours and see a health care provider.

Seek emergency medical help if an athlete has any of these symptoms:

• Loss of consciousness for longer than 30 seconds
• A headache that dramatically worsens over time
• Increased confusion and mood changes
• Can’t recognize familiar people or places
• Seizure
• Repeated vomiting
• Slurred speech

For a safe return to play, work with a concussion services specialist. Find an expert at Sanford Health locations in South Dakota, North Dakota and Minnesota. Need to be seen today? Get fast care at our walk-in clinics without an appointment.