5 Common Myths About Concussions in Youth Sports – What Every Parent and Coach Needs to Know
/Concussions are among the most misunderstood injuries in youth sports, and the consequences of ignoring them can be significant. Whether it’s a young soccer player colliding on the field or a teenager taking a hard fall during gymnastics, concussions are serious injuries that require proper attention and care.
I’m Dr. Jason Han, a Sports Clinical Specialist, and I’m here to address five common myths about concussions in youth sports. By understanding the facts, parents, coaches, and athletes can make informed decisions to protect young athletes from long-term harm.
Myth #1: You have to lose consciousness for it to be a concussion.
This myth is perhaps the most widespread and dangerous because it leads many people to underestimate a concussion’s severity.
The truth is that most concussions do not involve a loss of consciousness. A concussion occurs when the brain moves rapidly inside the skull after an impact, disrupting its normal function. This can happen without the athlete “blacking out.”
In fact, studies reveal that only about 10% of concussions result in a loss of consciousness. Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, confusion, and sensitivity to light or sound are far more common indicators.
What to do: Always err on the side of caution. If an athlete shows any signs of a concussion, no matter how mild, remove them from play immediately. The mantra to remember is: If in doubt, sit them out.
Myth #2: If you don’t hit your head, you can’t get a concussion.
This is a big misconception. Many people believe that a direct blow to the head is necessary for a concussion, but that’s not true.
A concussion can result from a hard hit to the body, such as a football tackle, a collision in soccer, or even a fall. These impacts can create enough force to cause the brain to move within the skull, leading to a concussion—even if the head itself wasn’t struck.
Think of it like a whiplash injury: when the head jerks forward and backward rapidly, the brain can sustain damage without direct contact.
What to do: Be vigilant after any significant impact, whether it’s to the head or body. If an athlete appears dazed, confused, or shows other symptoms, don’t assume they’re fine just because they didn’t hit their head. Monitor them closely and seek medical evaluation if needed.
Myth #3: If you don’t have symptoms right away, you’re fine.
Concussion symptoms don’t always show up immediately. In some cases, it can take hours—or even days—for symptoms to emerge.
For example, a young athlete might feel fine after an impact and even return to play, only to develop headaches, nausea, or mood changes later. This delayed onset of symptoms can be dangerous if the athlete continues to participate in physical activities without proper monitoring.
What to do: Monitor athletes for at least 24-48 hours after any significant impact, even if they initially seem fine. Regularly check in to see if new symptoms develop, and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if they do. Early intervention can prevent more severe complications.
Myth #4: You just need to ‘tough it out’ and get back in the game.
This outdated mindset is not only harmful but potentially life-threatening. Concussions are not injuries you can simply “push through.” The brain needs time and rest to heal.
Returning to play too soon after a concussion increases the risk of Second Impact Syndrome—a rare but serious condition where a second injury occurs before the brain has healed. This can result in severe brain damage or even death.
In addition, rushing back can lead to prolonged symptoms, such as chronic headaches, difficulty concentrating, and mood swings, making the recovery process much harder.
What to do: Emphasize to athletes and their families the importance of proper recovery time. A few weeks on the sidelines is a small price to pay compared to the long-term consequences of an untreated concussion.
Myth #5: Concussions aren’t a big deal.
This myth is perhaps the most dangerous of all. Concussions are a big deal—especially for children and teens whose brains are still developing.
An untreated concussion can affect a young athlete’s ability to perform in school, regulate emotions, and participate in activities they love. Over time, repeated concussions can lead to chronic issues, such as:
Persistent headaches
Learning difficulties
Increased risk of long-term brain disorders
Ignoring the seriousness of concussions puts young athletes’ futures at risk—not just in sports but in all areas of life.
What to do: Take every concussion seriously. Educate athletes, parents, and coaches about the importance of proper care and encourage open communication about symptoms.
Your Role in Protecting Young Athletes
As parents, coaches, and mentors, you have a responsibility to prioritize the safety and well-being of young athletes. Let’s recap the truths about concussions:
Losing consciousness is not necessary for a concussion.
You can get a concussion without hitting your head.
Symptoms can take hours or days to appear.
“Toughing it out” is dangerous and should be avoided.
Concussions are serious and require proper care.
At HealthFit Physical Therapy & Chiropractic, we specialize in concussion management and recovery. Our goal is to ensure young athletes recover fully, stay safe, and continue to thrive both on and off the field.
If you have questions about concussions or need support, we’re here to help. Visit our HealthFit Concussion Program website today to learn more about our concussion management services and set up a personalized evaluation. Together, we can ensure their safe recovery and help them get back to the activities they love. Don’t wait—take the first step toward peace of mind and lasting health today!
Together, we can protect young athletes, dispel harmful myths, and ensure their health and success for years to come.
