In this episode of The SPORTi Podcast, hosts Laura and Vanesa sit down with Julie, a certified athletic therapist, registered massage therapist, and kinesiologist specializing in concussion management at Everest Academy. They dive deep into the critical topic of concussions in youth sports - how to recognize them, when to seek emergency care, and what steps parents should take for proper recovery. Julie breaks down the “red flag” symptoms that warrant an ER visit, explains the importance of a structured return-to-play protocol, and dispels common misconceptions about concussion clearance.

Julie also highlights the role of education and awareness in preventing concussions, emphasizing the need for proper equipment, multi-sport training, and neuromuscular control to reduce injury risk. The discussion covers how to monitor symptoms, when to see a specialist, and the importance of involving professionals who understand concussion recovery holistically. The episode wraps up with key resources for parents, including Parachute Canada, and a reminder that youth athletes should prioritize long-term health over immediate game time.

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