What should I do if I’ve just sustained a concussion?
A potential concussion can be scary, and it can be overwhelming trying to determine when you may need treatment. The most recent concussion guidelines recommend:
Symptom Monitoring for 4-6 hours after injury
After your concussion, you should try to remain awake and monitor for worsening symptoms (red flags) in the first 4-6 hours. These red flags include:
- Loss of consciousness or seizures
- Vomiting
- Loss of sensation or weakness in arms/legs
- Progressively worsening headache or neck pain, slurred speech, or memory loss
The presence of these symptoms requires medical evaluation by your primary provider or an emergency room physician. If you have any concerns, it is always a good idea to see your doctor.
Relative rest and gradual return to activity
While it was once suggested that you should completely avoid all activity and hibernate after concussion, research indicates that this may actually prolong your recovery.
The updated recommendations include gradually returning to activities of daily living as soon as possible, as long as they don’t make your symptoms worse. For the first two days, this period of relative rest often includes minimizing screen use and sleeping as much as your body and brain needs. Rest from work and school is often recommended.
After the first two days, it is suggested to also introduce light aerobic exercise, like walking or cycling, as long as symptoms are not provoked. It is important that you are not pushing through your symptoms.
Concussion assessment and rehabilitation
Ideally an assessment by a concussion provider will occur within the first week to identify and address your specific issues. At this time, a treatment plan will be discussed, including a plan for return to exercise, school, work, and/or return to play if required. Each concussion presents differently, so these recommendations should be individualized to your needs.
If you have suffered a concussion, Elora Physiotherapy has providers specifically trained in the thorough assessment and treatment of this type of injury to help you get back to your everyday activities.
References
Patricios JS, Schneider KJ, Dvorak J, et alConsensus statement on concussion in sport: the 6th International Conference on Concussion in Sport–Amsterdam, October 2022. British Journal of Sports Medicine 2023;57:695-711.