ASHLAND, Ky. — King’s Daughters and Marshall Orthopaedics are hosting a special opportunity for the public to learn about concussions and their impact on high school and college athletes.

At 2 p.m. Sunday, March 13, at Kyova 10 Theatre there will be a presentation and screening of “Concussion.” The movie, starring Will Smith as Bennet Omalu, M.D., tells the story of the physician who uncovered the link between American football and chronic traumatic encephalopathy. The movie is rated PG-13.

Prior to the screening, King’s Daughters sports medicine physician Andy Gilliland, M.D., orthopaedic surgeons Michael Chambers, M.D., and Charles Giangarra, M.D., will discuss concussions, baseline testing, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, standards for return to play and helmet/prevention measures. Following the film, physicians will answer questions from players, parents and coaches.

The program is sponsored by King’s Daughters Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine and Marshall Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. The event is free but RSVPs are required. Register online at kdmc.com/concussions.

“Management and diagnosis of concussion has changed significantly in the past 10 years due to previously unknown dangers, ” said Gilliland, who sees about 100 patients a year who have a head injury, from adolescents to college athletes.

Symptoms of concussion include headache, nausea, balance problems or dizziness, double or fuzzy vision, sensitivity to light or noise, feeling sluggish, feeling foggy, change in sleep patterns, and concentration or memory problems.

King’s Daughters ImPACT concussion testing program provides physicians, coaches and athletic trainers with information that can help take the guesswork out of concussion management and promote safe return-to-play decisions for athletes.

Michael Gullatte, a Kentucky Christian University wide receiver, says he doesn’t know which “hit” caused his concussion last fall, but admits now he should have informed a trainer immediately. Instead, the 20-year-old sophomore suffered with a headache for three weeks and played through the pain, which is what most athletes do.

After testing, Gilliland, who serves as KCU team physician, recommended Gullatte be sidelined for the rest of the season. “I ended up having to withdraw from school,” Gullatte said. “Sensitivity to light and sound prevented me from attending class. I was crushed.”

Today, Gullatte is back on campus lifting weights and preparing for spring ball. “Fingers crossed with the proper concussion protocol, I will return to the field.”

For more information about baseline testing and Saturday morning injury clinics, contact King’s Daughters Medical Specialties Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine office at 606-327-0036.