Typically, the Sport Medicine Physician will provide information regarding the use of medication, return to work/sport, and they will refer you to other members of the rehabilitation team depending on your findings.
Do I REST after a concussion?
The concept of REST is an important and key change in the new consensus statement. In the past, the international concussion guidelines advised complete rest (mentally and physically) until concussion symptoms were completely gone. It was thought that rest may promote recovery by decreasing the brain’s energy demands after a concussion.
There was early research done on the concept of brain blood flow out of Buffalo, NY almost a decade ago. The current research does not conclude that COMPLETE REST is helpful for recovery. However, it is still important to REST (both mentally and physically) in the first 1-2 days after a diagnosis of concussion. After this period of time, athletes are encouraged to be both physically and mentally active as long as the activity does not make their concussion symptoms worse. It is also important to note that vigorous exercise or contact sport activities are NOT recommended.
Do I need REHABILITATION/PHYSIOTHERAPY after a concussion?
The data specifically supports rehabilitation/physiotherapy treatment for CERVICAL/NECK injuries and VESTIBULAR/BALANCE difficulties after a concussion.
The new guidelines are also supportive of closely monitored ACTIVE REHABILITATION PROGRAM. This type of program is safe and benefits recovery.
Do I need to see a Psychologist after a concussion?
Every concussion is different and because our brain controls our emotions just as much as it controls our balance or memory; a concussion can cause some patients to suffer from depression, anxiety, or anger.
Patients suffering from PSYCHOLOGICAL PROBLEMS can be treated in the form of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). This treatment is very helpful in the settings of depression and anxiety and are usually delivered by a Neuropsychologist, Psychiatrist, nurse or other healthcare providers trained in CBT.
As you recover from your concussion the members of the ASM healthcare team will guide you through a return to activity progression that is generally overseen by the Physiotherapist/Athletic Therapist. The final return to play clearance is done by the Sports Medicine Physician once the steps are achieved without an increase in symptoms.
If however, the symptoms worsen or do not progress as expected, the team will refer you back to the Sport Medicine Physician for further evaluation.
