How do I handle a possible concussion or head, neck or cervical column (HNC) injury?

Question

Accepted Answer

Concussion (Rule 8-2-4a): a wrestler who shows signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion (loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion, balance problems) must be immediately removed from the match. They may not return until cleared by an appropriate health care professional. HNC time (8-2-4b), for injuries to the head and neck involving the cervical column and/or nervous system: With an appropriate health care professional present (physician or certified athletic trainer): they may evaluate the wrestler for up to 5 minutes maximum. Afterward the wrestler must be ready to continue without delay, or defaults. Without one: HNC injuries are handled under the concussion rule and regular injury time. A second HNC injury in the same match means the wrestler must default. Time used for an HNC evaluation doesn't reduce the time available for other injuries. Recovery and blood time are not extended. HNC time is one of the charged time-outs. Meet with the athletic trainer or physician before competition so everyone knows how the rule will be applied.