EL PASO (KTSM) — A new report finds a concussion should not only take student athletes off the field, it could also keep some of them out of school.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommended children with severe symptoms stay home from school until they are cleared by their doctor.

"We’re talking about the brain and the number one thing you use when you're in the classroom is the brain," said Claudia Garduno with Spine and Rehab Specialists. "We’re asking students to learn things, to process things, to be listening and be attentive, but when the brain is injured, obviously that's going to be a big difficulty for them."

Studies show it usually takes about three weeks for a school-aged athlete to recover from a concussion.

Garduno said victims need to get help immediately so they can find out the severity of the concussion.

"I check and screen their neck. I check their vestibular system. We do some balance screening as well and then we perform a neurocognitive test," said Garduno.

Garduno said it's important for students and their parents take their recovery seriously.

"I don't understand why some people consider a knee injury more devastating than a brain injury. It really shouldn't be viewed that way,” said Garduno. “We really need to change our views on how we're thinking and everything."

Spine and Rehab Specialists offer a free test to check a person's balance, movement and neurocognitive functions. They encourage students get one before they start playing sports, so if they believe they have a concussion, their doctor has something to compare and it's easier to diagnose.

For more information, call (915) 562-8525 or visit http://www.spinerehab.net/.

Reference:
NewsChannel 9, KTSM
http://www.ktsm.com/news/report-recommends-student-athletes-stay-out-classroom-after-concussion