GCYSL Return-to-Play Policy
GCYSL RETURN TO PARTICIPATION (RTP) POLICY:
It is impossible to accurately predict how long concussions will last. There must be full recovery before someone is allowed to return to participation. GCYSL now requires that no athlete may resume participation until they have received written medical clearance from a licensed healthcare professional (Physician, Physician Assistant, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Athletic Trainer) trained in the evaluation and management of concussions. The health care professional might direct them into a well defined RTP stepped protocol similar to one outlined below. If at any time signs or symptoms should return during the RTP progression the athlete should cease activity. After the RTP protocol has been successfully administered (no longer exhibits any signs or symptoms or behaviors consistent with concussions), final written medical clearance is required by one of the licensed health care professionals mentioned above for them to fully return to unrestricted participation in practices and competitions.
Medical Clearance RTP protocol {Recommended one full day between steps):
Rehabilitation stage
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Functional exercise at each stage of rehabilitation
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Objective of each stage
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1. No activity
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Complete physical and cognitive rest until asymptomatic. School may need to be modified.
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Recovery
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2. Light aerobic activity
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Walking, swimming or stationary cycling keeping intensity <70% of maximal exertion; no resistance training
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Increase Heart Rate
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3. Sport Specific Exercise
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Running, agility, dynamic stretching;no head impact activities
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Add Movement
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4. Non-contact Training
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Progression to more complex training drills, i.e. technical work, passing drills; may start progressive resistance load training
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Exercise, coordination and cognitive
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5. Full Contact Practice
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Following medical clearance, participate in normal training activities
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Restore confidence and assess functional skills by coaching staff
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If at any time signs or symptoms should return during the RTP progression the athlete should stop activity that day. If the athlete's symptoms are gone the next day, s/he may resume the RTP progression at the last step completed in which no symptoms were present. If symptoms return and don't resolve, the athlete should be referred back to their medical provider