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Many athletic programs are now providing formal training on how to identify the signs of a concussion. (KEN GIGLIOTTI/WINNIPEG FREE PRESS ARCHIVES)

With the recent spotlight on NHL hockey superstar, Sidney Crosby’s possible career-ending concussion, it is important to recognize that concussions are not limited to professional athletes.

Concussions are essentially head traumas with temporary loss of brain function. Often called mild traumatic brain injuries, or MTBI, they can occur whenever there is a rapid acceleration of the brain against the skull.

Concussions can occur in a wide variety of individuals: athlete, non-athlete, adults and children, and do not always involve head trauma. Also, the latest research shows that despite advancements in protective headgear for athletes, concussions are actually on the rise.

A typical concussion is characterized by a combination of physical, emotional and cognitive symptoms such as: loss of balance, confusion, headache, blurred vision, extreme lethargy, ringing in the ears, light sensitivity and in some severe cases, convulsions and seizures.

Coaches and parents alike need to be able to recognize these signs and symptoms and seek appropriate care when a concussion is suspected.

Better awareness and diagnostics have certainly improved outcomes over the last few years. Some school athletics programs now provide formal training on identifying signs of concussion. While these measures are a significant improvement, concussion rates still remain high.

So how has Sidney Crosby fared over the last few months? The NHL star has consulted multiple specialists in different fields. Of particular note is Dr. Ted Carrick, a former Winnipeg chiropractor and professor of clinical neurology at Life University. Carrick has successfully been treating post-concussion cases at the brand new Chiropractic Neurology Clinic located in Marietta, Ga.

Carrick incorporates specific chiropractic adjustment and vestibular rehabilitative procedures to help restore posture, balance and proper function to the central nervous system in order to speed up recovery from concussions.

"Carrick had a very prominent role in Sidney’s current recovery status," Crosby’s agent Pat Brisson told Maclean’s magazine. "He progressed extremely well under Carrick."

Most concussions will resolve on their own over time. Each case is different and you should always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional prior to resuming sports.

Dr. Christian Chatzoglou, D.C. is a chiropractor, writer and natural health expert.