Return to Learn: Our First Priority for Student-Athletes

As the healthcare community learns more about sport-related concussions, there is a growing concern with the potential impact this injury could have on our youth. Understanding the safest approach to return an athlete to the playing field has been well documented, although with varying opinions. One aspect of greater importance would be the classroom and how we can make the best transition from injury to learning.

For those who sustain a concussion, there are common challenges that follow when returning to the learning environment. In general, the classroom can be a difficult place to function if certain symptoms still remain. “Noise or light sensitivity and headache are common and can become worse in a typical setting,” said Tim Gilbert, LAT, ATC CVMC athletic trainer for CVCC. “The brain may not have the ability to function at full capacity following a concussion and the outward signs of this struggle may not be very obvious.”

According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some common challenges pertaining to the classroom transition are as follows:

• Attention and concentration may decrease

• Difficulty remembering previously learned information/retaining new information

• May need more time to complete homework assignments/tests

• May become irritable or emotional during the day

• May exhibit impulsive and inappropriate behavior

• Difficulty transitioning from one assignment to another

• May feel tired or sleepy more than usual

Despite these challenges, there is a safe and effective approach for most cases. The phrase “Return to Learn” is used to describe the process of modifying the student’s environment and expectations to reduce the challenges they may encounter. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) published a clinical report in 2010 that includes helpful strategies and explains that “cognitive rest is recommended.” Below are some of the recommendations by the AAP:

• Short term absence from school

• Reduction in the amount of time the student spends in class

• Reduce the overall amount of work required

• Increase the amount of time required to complete tasks

• Provide a quiet area for study

• Post-pone tests (scores may decrease during this time)

Keep in mind that concussions can affect each student in a different way. Parents, educators, and healthcare professionals should always communicate with one another to ensure our youth are on the right track. An individualized approach to the “Return to Learn” process is important for healthy results. In the end, the athlete should be able to become a student again and that should always be our first priority.