When Can I Return to Play After a Concussion?
Why Avoiding High-Impact Activities Is Key to Concussion Recovery
When recovering from a concussion, even minor bumps or jolts to the head can be detrimental. It’s essential to avoid high-impact activities, including contact sports and exercises with jolting motions, until fully recovered. Engaging in these activities too soon can hinder healing and increase the risk of long-term symptoms. Here’s why taking a break from high-impact activities is critical and how to navigate exercise during recovery.
Why Impact Risks Are Harmful Post-Concussion
After a concussion, the brain is more vulnerable to injury. Even slight jolts, such as jogging or biking on uneven terrain, can be enough to cause a secondary injury. This is known as “second impact syndrome,” where a subsequent impact during recovery can lead to severe brain swelling, compounding symptoms, and potentially prolonging or worsening the recovery process.
Risks of High-Impact Activities
Engaging in impact-heavy or risky activities can lead to:
Worsening Symptoms: Physical jarring can intensify symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
Extended Recovery Time: Increased brain inflammation from repeated stress can delay recovery and lead to persistent symptoms.
Elevated Risk of Long-Term Damage: Prematurely returning to high-impact sports may increase the risk of long-term cognitive issues, such as memory loss or concentration difficulties.
Alternative Activities to Support Healing
While high-impact activities should be avoided, there are safer options that can support your recovery:
Low-Impact Exercise: Consider activities like walking, stretching, or using a stationary bike on a low setting. Low-impact exercise boosts circulation and can aid recovery without risking re-injury.
Progressive Return: When cleared by a healthcare provider, gradually reintroduce activities, starting with light movements and avoiding any jarring motions.
How to Know When You Can Return to Play After a Concussion
Recovery timelines vary, and only a healthcare provider can determine when it’s safe to resume normal activities. Fortunately, The Neuro Clinic has fast objective concussion tests that, when combined with a doctor's professional opinion, can quickly determine if you are ready to return to play.
As of this article's publication date, we are the only clinic in Utah with the new cutting edge EyeBOX concussion test. Click Here see our news spotlight for the EyeBOX test.
Ready to Learn More? Download our comprehensive guide, “What Not to Do When You Get a Concussion,” to explore other tips and best practices for post-concussion care.
Get Professional Guidance
Understanding what’s best for your body after a concussion can be challenging. At The Neuro Clinic, we specialize in personalized concussion care, and we’re here to provide guidance on diet, supplementation, and lifestyle adjustments that support recovery. Find all of our contact options here: Contact Us.
Key Take-away:
By taking a break from high-impact activities, you’re protecting your brain from additional harm, reducing symptom severity, and supporting a full, sustainable recovery.
