Concussion in the pediatric and adolescent population: "different population, different concerns"

Abstract

Sports-related concussions are common among pediatric and adolescent athletes, yet a scarcity of age-specific research often has meant that practitioners use guidelines developed for collegiate or adult populations. This situation is changing, as more studies are being published about this population that bears special attention because of the immaturity of the developing brain. This article describes existing knowledge about the epidemiology and etiology of concussions in youth athletes; discusses issues related to assessment, clinical management, and return to activity; examines special concerns related to the effects of concussion on the developing brain; and discusses prevention and education initiatives related to concussion in youth athletes.