Top 5 Myths for

Sports-Related Concussions

As kids head back to the playing fields this spring to participate in recreational and school sports, the risk of getting a concussion increases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 65 percent of sports- and recreation-related concussions seen in the emergency room are in children ages 5 to 18 years.

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury caused by a rapid movement of the brain within the skull. It may, or more often may not, involve loss of consciousness. During impact, the brain moves inside the skull, which cause neurons in the brain to stretch and injure. These changes impact the brain’s ability to function, causing concussion symptoms.

According to Taylor McCue, PT, DPT, a physical therapist specializing in concussion management at Boston Sports Performance Center, in Wellesley, Massachusetts, many myths are swirling around regarding what you “should” and “shouldn’t do” after you sustain a concussion.

“As research is progressing and we are learning more about concussion every day, treatment strategies are continually being re-evaluated and updated,” said McCue. “To help educate our patients, we spend a lot of time reviewing the following myths and facts surrounding concussion and treatment.”

MYTH: A concussion happens only with a blow to the head.

FACT: Concussion is an acceleration/deceleration injury of the brain within the skull. This means that concussions may also occur with whiplash-type injuries, where there is no direct blow to the head.

MYTH: You should rest in a dark room after sustaining a concussion. 

FACT:  Take 24 to 48 hours for total rest after sustaining a concussion. However, early integration back into steady state aerobic exercise and school/work is critical for optimal recovery.

MYTH: Physical activity is not safe after a concussion.

FACT: It has been proven that beginning sub-symptomatic aerobic exercise within a couple of days after sustaining a concussion will help recovery time and associated concussion symptoms.

MYTH: Avoid all screens and digital media after a concussion.

FACT: A gradual re-introduction of screens should begin within a few days of concussion injury. If it does increase one’s symptoms, it should be performed in smaller increments, working back up toward the individual’s baseline usage.

MYTH: You should never sleep after a sustained concussion.

FACT: Recent research has shown that monitoring an individual who sustained a concussion in the first four hours is crucial and the risk of more severe brain injury drastically decreases after this period. Therefore, if the individual has been checked on during the four hours and does not show worsening symptoms such as vomiting, severe neck pain, slurred speech, and increasing confusion, they should be allowed to sleep normally without interruption. 

Steps to Take If You Suspect You or Your Child Suffered a Concussion
If you suspect you or your child has sustained a concussion, the CDC advises that you know your concussion ABCs:

• Assess the situation
• Be alert for signs and symptoms
• Contact a health care provider with experience in treating concussions

A concussion can take anywhere from one week to months to recover, and your health care provider will determine your child’s treatment plan.