The Temple University Concussion and Athletic Neurotrauma Program

Is there a 'concussion gene'? CNN | Added on September 20, 2011 Susan Hendricks reports on a study that finds genetics may play a role in concussions. Featuring Dr. Ryan Tierney, Kinesiology

Cerebral concussion, traumatic brain injury, transient spinal cord paralysis and brachial plexus injuries are potentially serious insults to the nervous system that are associated with contact athletic injuries. In accord with the principle that the management and return-to-play decisions should only be made by a qualified professional, Temple University has established its Concussion and Athletic Neurotrauma Program.

Our program meets the requirements of the new Pennsylvania law entitled the "Safety in Youth Sports Act" which takes effect this summer. This law states that all interscholastic athletes removed from play due to a concussion must be cleared for return to play by a medical professional who has been trained in the evaluation and management of concussion.

Clinical Care Team
Temple’s experienced, multidisciplinary faculty is well-suited to evaluate and manage athletic-induced neurotrauma, utilizing the latest imaging capabilities, neurocognitive ImPACT™ testing and clinically established return-to-play protocols. The neurotrauma team consists of athletic trainers, orthopaedic sports medicine specialists, neurologists, neurosurgeons, neurophysiologists, neurosypcholgists, and physiatrists.

Proper tackling technique protects both head and cervical spine.

Where can I be seen?
Utilizing the facilities of Temple University Hospital, Temple Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine satellite offices, Temple Medical School faculty, Temple Undergraduate and Graduate School of Kinesiology faculty, and in concert with the Shriners Hospitals for Children in Philadelphia, this program is designed to provide the necessary experience to meet the needs of team and family physicians, athletic trainers, athletic administrators, coaches, parents and, most importantly — the athletes.