The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) has updated its position statement on concussion received as a result of sporting injuries.
The Concussion and Brain Health Position Statement 2023 replaces the Concussion in Sport Australia Position Statement 2019.
“The 2023 position statement brings together the most contemporary, evidence-based information on concussion, repeated head trauma and brain health,” The AIS said in a statement.
“It presents it in a format appropriate for all stakeholders, including sport administrators, medical practitioners, coaches, parents and athletes.”
The AIS believed it would be a resource for those seeking reliable information to ensure participant safety and welfare was paramount, although it was not considered a guideline for clinical practice or legal standard of care.
“The updated statement provides an overview of the most up-to-date scientific literature on potential long-term effects of repeated head trauma and concussion in athletes,” the statement said
“It also includes recommendations and evidence specifically relating to concussion and brain health in female athletes and para athletes.”
However, like its 2019 predecessor, the 2023 position statement was based on the principle of an abundance of caution — “if in doubt, sit them out”.
It said the updated position statement would be an important tool to support the revision of activity-specific sport and active recreation concussion guidelines.
Further information can be accessed at this PS News link.
