A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury, often from a sudden jolt or direct blow to the head or body. This impact causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull, temporarily disrupting its normal functioning. Proper management is crucial for healing and preventing long-term complications.
Immediate Risks of Physical Exertion
Engaging in physical activity, including running, immediately after a concussion presents considerable risks. The brain is vulnerable following the initial injury, and any subsequent impact, even minor, can lead to severe consequences. If a second head injury occurs before the brain has fully recovered, it can trigger rapid and dangerous brain swelling. This swelling can result in significant disability or, in some cases, be fatal due to the confined space within the skull.
Physical exertion also exacerbates concussion symptoms. Activities that elevate heart rate or require concentration can intensify headaches, dizziness, nausea, light and sound sensitivity, and fatigue. These worsened symptoms impede the brain’s natural healing. The brain needs complete rest to repair damage. Pushing through symptoms or exercising too soon prolongs recovery and can lead to persistent post-concussion issues.
Concussion Recovery and Initial Rest
Initial concussion recovery focuses on physical and cognitive rest. This means avoiding mentally demanding activities like reading, computer use, television, video games, or schoolwork. Stop any activity that worsens symptoms immediately. Physical rest involves refraining from all exercise, sports, or strenuous activities that could risk re-injury or worsen symptoms.
The duration of this initial rest varies among individuals, depending on concussion severity and recovery pace. It often ranges from a few days to over a week, with symptoms gradually subsiding. A medical professional’s evaluation is necessary to confirm diagnosis and provide tailored guidance. Following their instructions is crucial for safe recovery.
Gradual Return to Activity
Returning to physical activity, including running, should only begin after all concussion symptoms have resolved and a healthcare professional has provided medical clearance. This involves a structured, progressive “return-to-activity” protocol with several monitored stages. The first stage typically involves very light aerobic exercise, such as walking or stationary cycling, for short durations (e.g., 10-15 minutes) at low intensity, ensuring symptoms do not reappear.
The protocol progresses through stages:
Moderate aerobic activity, like light jogging or increased cycling intensity, for longer periods (e.g., 20-30 minutes), without resistance training or head movement that could provoke symptoms.
Sport-specific exercise, such as running drills or activities mimicking their sport, but without contact or high-impact movements.
Non-contact practice, where an individual participates in drills with peers but avoids any physical contact.
Full contact practice or competition, if medically appropriate for their sport.
Each step should only be attempted if the individual remains symptom-free at rest and during the previous activity level. If any concussion symptoms resurface, stop the activity immediately and revert to the previous symptom-free stage for at least 24 hours. This progression requires a healthcare professional’s supervision or approval, who can monitor progress and adjust the protocol. Adhering to this methodical, symptom-limited return is essential for safe recovery and reducing the likelihood of re-injury or prolonged post-concussion issues.
Recognizing Worsening Symptoms
During concussion recovery, it is important to monitor for signs that symptoms are worsening or the brain is not healing as expected. Certain symptoms indicate a need for immediate medical attention. These include:
A severe headache that intensifies over time
Unusual drowsiness or difficulty being awakened
Repeated episodes of vomiting
Slurred speech
Increasing confusion or disorientation
Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
Seizures (uncontrolled shaking or loss of consciousness)
Significant changes in behavior or personality, such as unusual irritability or profound sadness
If any of these severe symptoms develop, it is crucial to seek emergency medical care, as they can signal a more serious underlying issue.