Motocross and Concussions
There are not too many sports where an athlete goes through so much during the course of a motocross race. Riders are often racing with broken bones, damaged ligaments, severe bruising, and many other things. One of those also included concussion and while in sports like rugby, or even cricket, there are rules and regulations for an athlete continuing if there are signs of a concussion.
Of course, you cannot stop a rider racing after an accident, that is all on him, but we all know how tough motocross riders are and a bang to the head doesn’t often seem to stop them.
Managing and mitigating the effects of concussion in motorcycle sport is paramount, and Motorcycling Australia (MA) has released an updated set of guidelines to ensure the absolute well-being of its members.
MA’s expert Medical Panel first released new concussion management guidelines in late 2023 and now, after a six-monthly review and further refinements, the policy now provides even more succinct advice to riders, teams, officials, coaches and healthcare personnel on all aspects of the concussion in motorcycle sport – from recognition and recommended treatment right through to returning to competition.
The updated concussion management guidelines take immediate effect, and can be found here alongside support documents and a concussion fact sheet.
Concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by biomechanical forces, and the risks of motorcycle sport makes it of critical importance. It can be caused by any force from a minor ‘knock’ to a heavy and severe impact, and can significantly affect an individual’s health, performance and overall quality of life.
In motorcycle sport, concussion can occur while you are wearing a helmet or even in low-speed crashes. Symptoms of concussion include mild headaches, tiredness, physical, cognitive and emotional disruption, reduced concentration, nausea, memory difficulties, irritability, dizziness and/or balance problems.