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Although most people recover fully after a concussion, how quickly they improve depends on many factors, including: their age, how healthy they were before the concussion, and how they take care of themselves after the injury.
Rest and time are the most important factors in recovering from a concussion. Rest is necessary because it helps the brain to heal, which takes time. “Toughing it out” and ignoring symptoms often makes them worse. Under the supervision of their healthcare provider, a person with a concussion should gradually resume normal work and school activities only when symptoms have reduced significantly. If symptoms return or new symptoms appear, it means the patient is pushing himself too hard. A person with a known or suspected concussion should not return to play until he is evaluated and given permission by an appropriate healthcare professional.
In the first few weeks after a concussion, experts advise that you limit physical exertion, focus on getting enough sleep, and gradually return to your work and school activities and responsibilities. Athletes need to be particularly careful to avoid another injury to the head during the period that they are recovering from a concussion. You might talk to your physician about short-term treatments for headaches, sleep difficulties, and irritability or you might try yoga, meditation, or massage to help to lessen your symptoms. Again, it is important to remember that your symptoms will usually go away on their own. Research has shown that knowing that symptoms may occur, and that they are a normal part of the recovery process, can help people to recover faster.
Interactive Metronome® is an assessment and treatment tool that helps to re-set the brain’s internal timing for improved cognitive and motor functioning after a neurological change such as with a brain injury, concussion, and stroke. Physical, occupational, and speech therapists are certified providers that utilize this tool as appropriate to assist in better patient outcomes.