What are the steps for Anthony Richardson (concussion) to return to play?
Colts rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson was ruled out of Sunday's game against the Houston Texans in the second quarter due to a concussion.
It was not clear when Richardson suffered the injury. He was 6-of-10 for 56 yards with 3 carries for 35 yards and 2 touchdowns. Gardner Minshew replaced Richardson and let the Colts on a touchdown drive. Here are the steps for Richardson to return to play.
What are the steps for returning to play from the NFL concussion protocol?
There are five steps to complete with the decision to return to full participation confirmed by the Independent Neurological Consultant, who is an independent neurotrauma doctor.
Phase 1: Symptom-limited activity
The player is prescribed rest and to avoid activities that aggravate symptoms. Limited stretching and balance training can be introduced, progressing to light aerobic exercise, under athletic training staff supervision. If the player doesn't have an increase in symptoms and doesn't demonstrate signs of a concussion during a neurological examination, they are cleared for the next phase.
Phase 2: Aerobic exercise
Players begin graduated cardiovascular exercise and dynamic stretching and balancing training under the supervision of team staff. If the player can engage in cardiovascular exercise without an increase or aggravation of symptoms, they move on to next phase.
Phase 3: Football-specific exercise
Continued supervised cardiovascular exercises that are increased and may simulate sport-specific activities. Supervised strength training is introduced.
Phase 4: Non-contact training drills
The player continues cardiovascular, strength and balance training, adding team-based, sports-specific exercises and participation in non-contact activities.
Phase 5: Full football activity/clearance
The player is cleared by the team doctor for full football activity. The player must be examined by the independent neurological consultant assigned to his team. If the consultant agrees with the team physician that the player’s concussion has been resolved, the player can participate in practice and contact without restriction.
How long does it take to return from a concussion in the NFL?
In 2022, 62 players in the AFC were listed on the injury report with a concussion according to pro-football-reference.com. Only 8 played that week, 35 missed one game, 14 two games and 5 three games.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Colts: What are steps for Anthony Richardson (concussion) to play?
