Episode 6 - Concussions in Sport (Part 2)

In Episode 6, Part 2 in our series on Concussions in Sport, Dr. Dold discusses the management of concussions with Dr. Erin Reynolds and Dr. Kayla Covert, two experts in the field of concussions. In this episode, we focus primarily on the management of concussions and how our management has changed and continues to evolve. We look into the return to play (RTP) protocols and some of the specific management tools that we use to treat an athlete who has suffered a recent concussion, including vestibular physical therapy. Concussions are mild traumatic brain injuries usually resulting from direct impact to the head or whiplash injuries during play. Sports concussion has become a significant problem in all levels of sport. In recent years, it has made headlines with reports about the consequences of returning to play too soon, as well as research findings into the long-term effects of the injury. Erin Reynolds, PsyD is a Clinical Sports Neuropsychologist who specializes in treating sports-related concussions. She currently serves as the Clinical Director of the Baylor Scott & White Sports Concussion Program at The Star in Frisco, Texas. She also holds an appointment as an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine. Prior to these positions, Erin served as Fellowship Director for the UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program and held an appointment as Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh. The UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program is the largest clinical and research concussion program in the world and during her 5 year tenure she developed advanced skills and a unique understanding of this complex injury. For more on Dr. Reynolds: drerinreynolds.com Kayla Covert, PT DPT NCS is a board-certified clinical specialist in neurologic physical therapy with advanced training in the treatment of sports-related concussions. As a member of the Sports Concussion Program at The Star, she provides comprehensive assessments and rehabilitation for vestibular and balance dysfunction following concussion. Kayla also plays a role in reintroducing physical activity through exertion physical therapy. Her areas of interest include working with youth, collegiate and professional athletes, in addition to exertion physical therapy to assist with return to play. For more information on Kayla: www.bswhealth.com/physical-therapist/kayla-covert This episode is sponsored by: Star Orthopedics and Sports Medicine in Frisco, Texas. www.starorthopedics.com The Sports Medicine Podcast: Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesportsmedicinepodcast/ Feedback/Inquiries: thesportsmedicinepodcast@gmail.com Host: Dr. Andrew Dold, MD FACS FRCSC - Orthopedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine Specialist www.DoldMD.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/dr.dold.md/ www.instagram.com/thesportsmedicinepodcast/