Concussion in para sport: the first position statement of the Concussion in Para Sport (CIPS) Group

This paper addresses the need for specific concussion guidelines for para-athletes, as previous guidelines have not adequately considered this population. The Concussion in Para Sport (CIPS) group was formed to analyze and discuss para-athlete-specific issues within the established clinical domains of the current concussion in sport consensus statement. The group evaluated the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 5 (SCAT5) to identify any para athlete-specific concerns. They emphasize the importance of preparticipation and periodic health examinations to determine a baseline reference point for concussion symptoms, while acknowledging the challenges in interpreting these for para-athletes. The statement provides recommendations for concussion assessment and management, including the need for greater understanding among medical staff, coaches, and athletes. It also suggests future research to investigate assessment tools and concussion prevention strategies for para-athletes.

• 1
  The SCAT5 should not be used in and of itself to make, or exclude, the diagnosis of concussion in a para athlete, and a para athlete may have a concussion even if their SCAT5 is deemed to be ‘normal’.
• 2
  Routine baseline periodic preparticipation examinations (PPE) are emphasized in order to establish a point of reference for the assessment of concussion symptoms in the future.
• 3
  Case-by-case decision making related to RTS postconcussion is crucial for non-para athletes. Given the unique presentations of many para athletes, this individualisation of care is even more paramount.