NBA Issues Concussion Policy

After concussion-like symptoms caused a number of players to miss games last season, the NBA has instituted a concussion policy to evaluate how soon players can return to play. The new requirement puts the NBA on par with the NFL, NHL and MLB, all of which have concussion protocols in place.

As part of the policy, players must undergo baseline testing prior to the opening of preseason games. During the season, players diagnosed with concussions will return to play gradually, undergoing a series of steps at increasing levels of exertion while being monitored for returning symptoms. Final clearance may take days or weeks and will only be granted after consultation with the neurologist in charge of the NBA's concussion program.