Overview
- An international, multidisciplinary team published the plain-language guide in Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, drawing on ACRM and the 6th International Consensus on Concussion in Sport, and made it open access.
- A QR code links to a two-page Concussion Recognition Tool that non-medical adults can use to spot symptoms and manage next steps.
- Authors stress immediate removal from play when a concussion is suspected, with earlier action linked to faster return to competition.
- The guide flags urgent red-flag signs requiring emergency care and outlines 24–48 hours of relative rest followed by a supervised, graded return, with persistent symptoms beyond four weeks prompting specialist referral.
- The team urges assigning a designated parent as a “safety officer” at youth events and notes concussions occur across many sports, including among female athletes.