Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsTypes of ConcussionsDanger SignsReturning to Normal ActivityConcussion ProtocolTips for HealingThings to AvoidFrequently Asked Questions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Types of Concussions
Danger Signs
Returning to Normal Activity
Concussion Protocol
Tips for Healing
Things to Avoid
Frequently Asked Questions
Depending on the severity of theconcussion, there is a loss of normal brain function, and the effects from a concussion can last for days, weeks, or longer. The length of a concussion also depends on what subtype of concussion a person has.
This article discusses how long concussions can last.
Verywell / Michela Buttignol
There are five grades of concussions, which are grouped according to symptoms. The following explains the grades and symptoms:
Along with the grades of a concussion, there are particular subtypes that have treatment options:
If an individual has a concussion or symptoms that last for several weeks, it is important to see a healthcare provider. If you have any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
When a person has a concussion, physical and mentalrestis ideal. It is natural to need more rest and sleep than usual, however research has shown that too much mental rest can extend the recovery period and make the return to normal activities more difficult.
It is recommended to start engaging in activities slowly. As a person starts to engage in activities, if symptoms of the concussion appear, it is time to rest and limit activities that worsen the symptoms.
Regular activities that a person participated in before the injury should begin when they can be tolerated. If there is a high concussion grade, the activities should be avoided for the first two weeks.
A healthcare provider will consider both the physical and cognitive activities before allowing a person to participate.
Ease Back Into ActivitiesSymptoms can worsen if an individual returns to their normal activities too soon.
Ease Back Into Activities
Symptoms can worsen if an individual returns to their normal activities too soon.
Returning to Sports
If an individual is an athlete, research has shown that if the concussion symptoms are improving each day, they can begin to start adding cardiovascular activities that are low level. These activities include:
As improvement continues, the athlete can increase the activity level with the help of a physical trainer who can determine how much the athlete can tolerate when it comes to returning to sports and exercising.
For student-athletes, they can return to their activities when they are:
Concussion protocolsare procedures and policies from an organization that is required to care for an individual who has a head injury. The organization’s healthcare providers are the people who make sure the protocol is followed properly.
Other professionals and individuals that could be involved include:
This protocol is typically associated with an injury from sports.
Passing Baseline Tests and No Symptoms
The purpose of baseline testing is to assess an athlete’s brain and balance function. This includes:
Thistestingalso includes an examination to check for the presence of concussion symptoms.
Stretching and Balance Training
During this phase, the athlete can participate in aerobic exercise to increase the heart rate. They cannot lift weights at this time. Activities include:
Training Mimicking Sports
This phase allows the athlete to increase activity and the heart rate. Moderate movements are allowed, including:
When reintroducing weightlifting, it should be less weight and time from the typical routine.
Contact-Free Drills
This phase allows the athlete to participate in:
During this time, the athlete can participate in three planes of movement/non-contact sport-specific drills.
When healing from a concussion, it is important to follow the plan that your healthcare provider has shared.
The first thing is mental and physical rest. Learn the activities that may trigger the concussion symptoms. With each activity, start slowly. If there is difficulty, limit the activity that makes symptoms worse.
As an individual is recovering from a concussion, it is important to rest and heal. Avoid:
If there are any questions regarding activities to avoid, contact your healthcare provider.
What does a concussion feel like?
Depending on the severity, a concussion feels like a headache or pressure in the head.
What are the symptoms of a concussion?
Some of the symptoms include:
Why can’t you sleep after a concussion?
Although physical and mental rest is important to heal from a concussion, research has shown that too much rest could make a patient sensitive to activities that they are used to doing.
6 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Pointers Health Service.Head injuries/concussions.Stanford University Magazine.The five types of concussions.American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Concussion.Cleveland Clinic.Concussion.Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention.FAQs about baseline testing.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Recovery from a concussion.
6 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Pointers Health Service.Head injuries/concussions.Stanford University Magazine.The five types of concussions.American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Concussion.Cleveland Clinic.Concussion.Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention.FAQs about baseline testing.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Recovery from a concussion.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Pointers Health Service.Head injuries/concussions.Stanford University Magazine.The five types of concussions.American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Concussion.Cleveland Clinic.Concussion.Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention.FAQs about baseline testing.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Recovery from a concussion.
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Pointers Health Service.Head injuries/concussions.
Stanford University Magazine.The five types of concussions.
American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Concussion.
Cleveland Clinic.Concussion.
Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention.FAQs about baseline testing.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Recovery from a concussion.
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