Returning the student to school after concussion: what do clinicians need to know?

Abstract

Participation in school is vital to a child’s academic and social development. Following concussion, returning the student to school can pose several challenges for families, healthcare providers and school personnel. The complex constellation of postconcussion symptoms can impair learning and can make the school environment intolerable. Research evidence to guide the return to school process is lacking, but protocols have been proposed that outline a gradual reintroduction to school with academic accommodations tailored to the student’s specific symptoms. Key medical and school personnel must understand their respective roles to optimize the process. This review of the current literature examines the available data and expert recommendations that can support a student’s successful return to school following concussion.

Keywords

• academic accommodations
• adolescent
• concussion
• mild traumatic brain injury
• pediatric
• school