Indigenizing paediatric concussion injury prevention.

Abstract

This commentary addresses the urgent need for culturally responsive approaches to concussion prevention for Indigenous children in Canada, who face disproportionately higher injury rates compared to non-Indigenous populations. Current prevention strategies do not consider Indigenous priorities of children in Canada, creating a critical gap in culturally appropriate interventions. Effective Indigenization of concussion prevention requires collaborative development between health care professionals and cultural experts, community-specific approaches that respect diverse practices across Indigenous groups, and integration of traditional knowledge with Western medicine. This call to action urges researchers to develop community-led research questions, policy-makers to adapt protocols in partnership with Indigenous communities, and health care professionals to incorporate traditional healing practices. By addressing these missing priorities, we can create more equitable, effective concussion prevention strategies for Indigenous children in Canada.