Concussion: the return-to-play calendar
What happens straight away
- Stop immediately. The player does not go back on the ice the same day, whatever state they appear to be in. They are not left alone in the hours that follow.
- See a doctor within twenty-four to forty-eight hours, even if the symptoms are improving.
- The return protocol only starts once a doctor has given clearance.
A concussion can happen without any loss of consciousness, and symptoms can appear later, sometimes the next day.
This tool makes no diagnosis and authorises no return to play. It keeps the calendar of the stages and a record of what has been done. The decision to go back on the ice belongs to the doctor.
The date of the blow
When to go to emergency without waiting
These signs may point to a more serious head or neck injury. They call for urgent medical assessment, even if a doctor has already seen the person. In Switzerland the emergency number is 144. They can appear at once, or several hours or even several days after the blow.
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Severe headache, or one that is getting worse
- Double vision
- Weakness, tingling or burning in the arms or legs
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness, unusual drowsiness, or someone hard to wake
- Repeated vomiting
- Confusion, agitation or unusual behaviour that is getting worse
- Difficulty speaking or walking
Where this protocol comes from
The Return To Play protocol of the Swiss Ice Hockey Task Force Concussion, and Swiss Olympic's recommendations on concussion in sport.
- Swiss Ice Hockey — Return To Play protocol
- Swiss Olympic — concussion
- CHUV — sport and concussion in young people
This tool is not medical advice and replaces no consultation. Return to play is a medical decision.