New CDC Guidelines For Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently released a major new guideline on diagnosing and managing concussions and head-related injuries in children. The guideline focuses on MTBI, for mild traumatic brain injury, which some may refer to as a concussion. This is the first evidence-based clinical guideline in the United States for diagnosing and managing concussion or mild traumatic brain injury concussion.

The benefit of such a guideline enables physicians to a standard of health.

What Does The Guideline Advise?

The guideline explains that CT scans and X-rays are not necessary for diagnosing mild traumatic brain injury, and avoiding these tests helps minimize exposure to radiation. The only way to make a diagnosis is by clinical examination. Doctors are directed to use age-appropriate symptom scales, which can be very useful in assessing recovery.

It also advises patients to avoid prolonged rest and isolation, which is not helpful to recovery. The evidence shows that extending that can be detrimental. Kids can develop anxiety or depression about their personal life.

What Can Parents Do?

The main thing is focusing on safety tactics such as bike helmets, car seats and seatbelts, and any other daily safety measure. It can be something like having the proper equipment for a sports game.

Be aware of the concussion policies in your children’s school. Also, encourage them to report any suspected concussion.

The C.D.C. has developed materials for parents and a school letter.

The Takeaway

You may feel concern if your child has a possible concussion. It is important to remain calm but take appropriate action to ensure your child has a proper recovery. Don’t forget, almost all children fully recover from a concussion.  The new CDC guidelines will be helpful in ensuring better practices are kept to help ensure this recovery. We here at Pathways Neuropsychology have been handling brain related traumas for quite some time and have a thorough understanding of how to treat our clients. Please, if you ever have a concern about yourself or a loved one experiencing a concussion, give us a call.