When is it Safe to do So?
Returning to sports after a concussion is a topic that lacks a definitive timeframe for a safe return. Current research does not provide conclusive evidence regarding the effectiveness of specific recommended timelines, such as 10 days, for resuming sports activities after a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Determining the safest timeframe for returning to sports is likely based on the severity of the injury and the symptoms experienced by the individual. It is crucial to differentiate between a concussion, mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI), and a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Seeking a medical evaluation and diagnosis from a doctor is essential for accurately understanding the level of injury.
Considering the delicate nature of brain injuries, it is always better to err on the side of caution. Proceeding with care and allowing for an extended resting period is likely the best approach.
Chiropractic care, like other medical treatments, uses a severity scale to determine the appropriate level of treatment. In the case of a concussion, chiropractic treatment may be beneficial for severe cases involving spine or neck injuries.
As a chiropractor in West Vancouver, I have witnessed the positive effects of chiropractic treatment in alleviating symptoms and pain associated with concussions and TBIs.
In this article, we will provide a general definition of a Concussion or TBI and discuss the safety of returning to sports after a concussion.
What is a Concussion?
Concussions are a subset of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) that can occur from collisions, falls, or whiplash. They happen when the brain shakes within the skull, leading to swelling, inflammation, and chemical changes that can be harmful to health and well-being.
Contact sports like hockey, football, and rugby are most commonly associated with concussions due to the frequent impact and force involved. This raises the question of when it is safe to resume sports activities after a concussion.
Determining whether a concussion, mild or severe, has occurred typically requires a medical examination for prognosis and diagnosis. However, identifying signs and symptoms can provide an initial indication of a concussion. If you have experienced a traumatic event in sports and are now dealing with lightheadedness, headaches, nausea, and confusion, it is likely that you have suffered a concussion.
So, when is it safe to return to sports after enduring a concussion?
A Return-to-Sport Progression Protocol
Once a doctor determines that it is safe to resume sports activities, there are several steps and considerations to ensure a safe and effective return.
Before diving into the specific steps, it is important to keep in mind a few important guidelines:
- Always consult a doctor regarding a concussion or potential concussion. Never self-diagnose, even if the symptoms are mild. It is also important to note that symptoms can take up to 48 hours to manifest.
- Only return to sports under the supervision and with medical clearance from a doctor. Proceed confidently only after receiving the green light.
- At minimum, individuals who have suffered a concussion should rest and refrain from physical activity for at least 10 days, particularly in mild cases.
With these guidelines in mind, let’s outline a safe and effective, albeit generic, protocol for returning to sports after a concussion. It is crucial to follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor, as this is only a general protocol that can serve as a helpful guideline for concussions and other injuries.
As a chiropractor in West Vancouver, safety is always my top concern. Therefore, I tend to recommend similar guidelines for injury recovery, regardless of the type of injury or condition.
Six Phases for returning to Sports after a Concussion:
Phase 1: Rest and Recovery
Depending on the severity of the injury and prognosis, phase one involves a period of rest and recovery before engaging in any physical activity. The duration of this phase, which is at least 10 days but may extend to weeks, depends on the level of injury.
Phase 2: Taking the First Step
Once given approval by your doctor, you can gradually resume daily activities after completing the necessary rest period (minimum of 10 days). This involves short walks and performing daily household chores. Proceed cautiously and pay attention to any symptoms that may arise from these activities.
Phase 3: Light Activity
If phase 2 goes well without setbacks, it is time to introduce light aerobic activities that slightly increase your heart rate. This phase is not intended to be strenuous but serves as a gauge for your progress.
Phase 4: Gradual Intensity Increase
If there are no setbacks during the previous phases, you can gradually increase the intensity. Phase 4 includes moderate exercise and participating in certain practice drills.
Phase 5: Final Phase Before Full Activity
Assuming no setbacks occur, phase 5 involves reaching full activity levels, excluding contact. In the context of sports, this may include activities like sprinting, weightlifting, HIIT exercises, and non-contact scrimmage.
Phase 6: Return-to-Sport (Final Phase)
Congratulations! By completing each phase, you have demonstrated to yourself and medical professionals that you have recovered, and your body no longer exhibits worrisome concussion symptoms. Note that the duration of each phase is highly individualized and requires strict supervision and medical guidance. If all goes well, you will be back to competition in no time.
Final Thoughts
As a chiropractor in West Vancouver, my primary concern is the health and safety of my patients. Therefore, it is imperative to follow all the recommendations provided in this article.
Concussions are serious injuries, especially considering they affect the brain. If you or someone you know has experienced a concussion, mild or severe, seek immediate medical attention and do not wait for symptoms to worsen. In this case always err on the side of a conservative approach of first seeking medical attention. Never go home to just sleep it off.
Proactive prevention is the best approach. If you have suffered a TBI, there is hope. Following recommended treatments and recovery protocols will likely allow you to return to sports without limitations. While there may be exceptions, this holds true for the majority of cases.
