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Updated: Mar 21, 2026
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A Neuroscientific Approach to the Examination of Concussions in Student-Athletes
Published on: December 8, 2014
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Retirement and Activity Restrictions Following Concussion
Scott R Laker1, Adele Meron1, Michael R Greher2
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO 80045, USA.
Summary
Athletes should not retire after a set number of concussions. Return to play decisions require an individualized assessment, not a fixed limit, considering various risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Sport-related concussion is a common injury across all levels of athletic participation.
- Growing media and scientific interest highlights concerns about long-term concussion effects and risk mitigation strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the risks associated with sport-related concussion.
- To inform individualized decision-making regarding athlete return to play.
Main Methods:
- Epidemiological data analysis.
- Assessment of symptomatology.
- Neuropsychological performance evaluation.
- Biomechanical risk assessment.
Main Results:
- No specific number of concussions mandates athlete retirement.
- Individualized assessment is crucial for return to play decisions.
- Absolute contraindications for returning to collision sports are limited.
Conclusions:
- Athlete retirement due to concussion should not be based on a predetermined number of injuries.
- Return to play protocols should be tailored to the individual athlete.
- A comprehensive evaluation is necessary to mitigate concussion risk effectively.
