CDC Pediatric mTBI Guideline & HEADS UP
Children and teens with mild TBI — the first U.S. evidence-based guideline for this age group, with 19 sets of recommendations. HEADS UP is the CDC's concussion education program for health care providers, schools, coaches and families.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guideline on the Diagnosis and Management of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Among Children
Key recommendations
- Diagnosis is clinical; validated decision rules identify the few children who need imaging.
- Use validated, age-appropriate symptom scales, and look for risk factors for a longer recovery.
- Give families clear information about warning signs, symptom monitoring and the expected course of recovery.
- Encourage a gradual return to non-sport activities after no more than 2–3 days of rest.
- Return to school with a plan matched to symptoms, increasing participation without significantly worsening them.
How it shows up in our care
Go Clinic's practices treat adults; the CDC guideline is included because its principles match the adult guidelines and HEADS UP is a useful family resource. HEADS UP materials are a good starting point for families, schools and coaches.
About this guideline
The guideline was developed by a workgroup of the CDC's Board of Scientific Counselors, a federal advisory committee, from a systematic review of research published from 1990 to 2015.
Each of its 19 sets of recommendations carries a level of obligation — must, should or may — based on confidence in the evidence. They cover imaging, symptom scales, cognitive testing and standardized assessment for diagnosis; risk factors and monitoring for prognosis; and education, rest, support, return to school and symptom management for treatment.
What it says about the conditions we treat
Clear information for patients and families about warning signs and the expected course of recovery is part of treatment.
This summary is paraphrased for general information — see the source for its exact wording and full recommendations. Go Clinic is not affiliated with, and has not been reviewed or endorsed by, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last updated October 2026. This page is not medical advice; Go Clinic's telehealth services are not for emergencies — call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Care that follows the evidence.
See the conditions we treat, the FAQ, or check your state.