EXETER, NH – The typical treatment for a concussion patient is to rest and relax for a short time frame until symptoms have begun to subside before returning to work, school, or play. But a new study shows that rest time may differ for younger concussion patients.
The “Official Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics” conducted a trial study among patients ages 11-22 and found those with a concussion who were prescribed a five day rest period reported more symptoms than those prescribed a one or two day rest period, with a 10 day follow up. However, some doctors recommend young patients remain inactive for longer periods of time. Access Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics’ Concussion Specialist Dr. Kevin Heaton says this study highlights the difficulties in treating concussions.
“How much rest is too much? How much is not enough? While this study will not necessarily answer the question as to the exact amount of rest needed, and each concussion injury needs to be treated individually, it does underscore the possibility of harm in too much and prolonged rest,” he said.
The study raises the question whether resting for longer than 24 to 48 hours is beneficial for most young patients or not. In short, more isn’t always better.
For more information on concussion management, visit our website at www.accessportsmed.com