While considered a brain injury, concussions are often missed, as many athletes do not have severe symptoms. The most common symptoms that manifest are headaches and dizziness, and football players run the highest risk of experiencing a concussion during a game. Long term consequences of consistent concussions are emotional instability, irritation and cognitive impairments, including chronic dizziness and headaches. It is important to recover from a concussion before risking another. Concussion care and programs exist to spread awareness and protect young people from future health issues.

1. Valley Health ImPACT Program for
Athletes
Shenandoah Valley Family Practice Residency

2. Introduction
 The Shenandoah Valley Family Practice Residency
Program cares for athletes throughout the region of NW
Virginia and bordering areas of West Virginia. This care
includes evaluation for concussion. Early evaluation and
care of athletic concussions helps to ensure that post-
injury normal cognitive functions are regained and
preserved. The Shenandoah Valley Family Practice
Residency physicians work with athletes and their
families and coaches to ensure that student athletes will
return to the field only after complete recovery.
In contact and collision sports, such as football and
hockey, concussions are a common injury obtained by
players.

3. Valley Health ImPACT Program
 While considered a brain injury, concussions are
often missed, as many athletes do not have severe
symptoms. The most common symptoms that
manifest are headaches and dizziness, and football
players run the highest risk of experiencing a
concussion during a game.
Long term consequences of consistent concussions
are emotional instability, irritation and cognitive
impairments, including chronic dizziness and
headaches. It is important to recover from a
concussion before risking another. Concussion care
and programs exist to spread awareness and protect
young people from future health issues.