[SydisSporty]

I am 12 years old and I have had post concussion syndrome for almost a year now. I am still having 24/7 headaches. I got my concussion in December and I got it from figure skating. I was ice dancing when I fell and got it. I don't remember falling but I remember before and after just fine. I was pulled out of Ice Show and couldn't do my solo. I was heartbroken and I still am. I also couldn't go to the NY State district swim meet. I was pulled out of school for the rest of the year (March through end of school year). Summer vacation didn't help and I was where I was at the end of last year's school year. I am going to go back to school and see how it goes. I am doubtful. What do you think about me going back to skating? I have already started swimming again...

[Mark in Idaho]

SydisSporty,

At your age, another concussion can be devastating. Your brain is much more intolerant until the age of 14. It can continue to be sensitive after 14 but in a different way. The myelin sheath that covers nerve and axon fibers is still developing until 14 or later. Your brain may need years beyond 14 to rebuild the brain structures that have been damaged.

If you are still having head aches, it means your brain has not recovered control over intra-cranial pressure. A second concussion could be deadly.

Be aware to the risks of slipping on the pool deck or hitting the pool wall during a turn. If you are a girl, stay away from synchronized swimming. It is a serious cause of concussions from getting kicked in the head.

If you need to see a specialist, there is an world renown expert in Concord Massachusetts. Dr Robert Cantu has more experience than just about any neuro in the country. If he is withing driving range, it would be worth the drive.

Please consider that how you take care of your brain for the next 10 years will impact the rest of your life. The fact that you have struggled for so long indicated your brain is intolerant of trauma. You need to take any possible steps to avoid another head injury. They will only get worse.

Let us know how we can help you.

My best to you.

[aliciaj]

Originally Posted by SydisSporty

I am 12 years old and I have had post concussion syndrome for almost a year now. I am still having 24/7 headaches. I got my concussion in December and I got it from figure skating. I was ice dancing when I fell and got it. I don't remember falling but I remember before and after just fine. I was pulled out of Ice Show and couldn't do my solo. I was heartbroken and I still am. I also couldn't go to the NY State district swim meet. I was pulled out of school for the rest of the year (March through end of school year). Summer vacation didn't help and I was where I was at the end of last year's school year. I am going to go back to school and see how it goes. I am doubtful. What do you think about me going back to skating? I have already started swimming again...

I know exactly how you feel. I've literally gone through almost the same thing you are. And am still suffering from PCS it is scary at times, but I know that I will get better and that people do get through this.

[andromeda]

You poor thing! There's nothing I can say better than Mike, but i do hope you can get back to figure skating one day. I used to skate myself. I know how frustrating it is putting the things we are so passionate about on hold.