Tips for Minimizing the Risk of another Concussion
Whether you’re an amateur or professional athlete, one of the first things you want to do after any type of injury is get back in the game. With a concussion or head injury, though, you need to be careful about how you reintegrate your sport back into your life, as studies show that the risk of another concussion goes up dramatically when you’ve already had one.
Of course, you should always work closely with your primary care physician, deferring to their judgment as to when it’s safe for you to start playing again. Here’s a progressive approach to returning to your passion, steps that will typically be taken over a period of time.
Step #1—Return to routine daily activities first—In the aftermath of a concussion, the first thing you’ll typically need is rest. Your doctor will determine how long you’ll need to abstain from strenuous activity. Start with the simple tasks of daily life…walking, sitting, bending, squatting. Lift only light items.
Step #2—Engage in light aerobic activity—One of the best ways to start regaining your strength without jeopardizing your health is on a stationary bike. You can also take walks, gradually increasing the distance. Refrain from weightlifting or using strength training machines.
Step #3—With your doctor’s consent, increase the intensity of your physical exercise. You may engage in easy running for short distances, ride a bike on flat terrain for a short period of time, or even engage in light weightlifting.
Step #4—When recommended by your doctor, you may participate in intense, no-contact, physical activity. If you had a regular weightlifting regimen, you should be able to return to it at this point. You may also run sprints or ride a bicycle on rolling hills.
Step #5—Go to a controlled practice (whether contact or not)—the hitting tends not to be as hard at a practice.
Step #6—When your doctor deems you ready, it’s time to return to competition
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer any type of concussion, TBI or traumatic brain injury. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas and San Antonio.
