Concussion

Recognise. Remove. Recover.
The IRFU Concussion Guidelines provide players, coaches, referees and parents with the latest advice on identifying and managing concussion, helping to ensure player welfare and a safe return to rugby.

Concussion Guidelines

These guidelines are to assist players, coaches, referees and family members to understand the importance of recognising and properly managing players with concussion.

The IRFU guidelines have been updated to reflect the latest medical advice from the 6th International Consensus Conference on Concussion in Sport which indicates that immediate removal from play, early medical assessment and early light physical and mental activity can help treat the symptoms of concussion and prevent persisting symptoms.

IRFU Guide to Concussion in Amateur Rugby Union

IRFU Guide to Concussion Wallet Card

Any player removed from play with a concussion should enter the IRFU Graduated Return to Play (GRTP) protocol. The GRTP takes a minimum of 21 days for adults and 23 days for U20s.

Graduated Return To Play Protocol (GRTP)

The IRFU Graduated Return to Play (GRTP) Protocol guides the player through the rehabilitation stages following a concussion or suspected concussion.

There are suggested activities in each stage which may be used to gradually increase the amount, intensity and/or type of exercise that the player does in order to ensure a safe and successful return to sport. The GRTP wallet card and videos can help guide you through these activities, but the return to contact skills should be under the guidance of your coach.

GRTP Videos:

Stage 1: Symptom Limited Exercise

Stage 2: Aerobic Exercise

Stage 3: Rugby Specific Exercise

Stage 4: Non-contact Drills

Stage 5: Return to Full Rugby Practice