A Comprehensive Guide
Experiencing a concussion can be a daunting and confusing time. Whether it's from a sports injury, a fall, or an accident, knowing the right steps to take after a concussion is crucial for a smooth recovery. At Nostos in Calgary, we specialize in concussion management and are here to guide you through the process. Here are the concussion recovery steps.
Recognize the Symptoms
The first step in managing a concussion is recognizing the symptoms. Common signs include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and sensitivity to light or noise. If you suspect a concussion, it's essential to seek medical attention immediately.
Seek Professional Evaluation
Visiting a healthcare professional should be your next step. At Nostos, our team is trained in concussion management and will perform a thorough evaluation to assess the severity of your condition. Early intervention can significantly impact your recovery timeline.
Rest & Recovery
What NOT to do
All Sporting Activities Must Stop
Until the brain has had time to recover. Without full recovery, you risk irreversible damage if you get a second concussion. Do not play out the rest of the game or activity.
Do NOT Do Nothing
Traditionally, people were instructed to sit in a dark room and do nothing. This information has been proven to have poor recovery results. Being in the dark sensitises you to light, creating aversion to being in the sun or in a bright room. This then encourages people to avoid activity. Doing nothing communicates the brain to do nothing. We have to stimulate the brain with the way we want it to heal.
Sunglasses or Ear Plugs?
Some people want to wear sunglasses or earplugs for light and noise sensitivity. Avoid using these things unless sensitivity is completely intolerable. Continued use of sunglasses and earplugs have been shown to create long term light and sound sensitivities. The exception being blue-light blocking glasses, see in “what to do”.
Alcohol
Alcohol will amplify gut and brain inflammation, severely impacting the brain’s recovery. You cannot even have a single drink, this is that important.
Work/School/Play
Ideally, there will be a 3-10 day break from work/school with a recovery plan. Some people who are not able to take this break may hit a wall in their recovery until they are able to take some time off. For many, time off is crucial to healing. Taking it sooner rather than later means you’ll heal sooner.
Steps You Should Take After a Concussion!
Get Checked
Get assessed by a trained professional as soon as you can from the injury. This is proven to dramatically improve the recovery outcomes.
Modified Healthy Activity
In the first week following an injury, continue doing gentle activity until you start to notice a 3/10 point increase of symptoms. Gentle activity includes: walks, short bouts of reading, household chores, talking on the phone, socialising, etc. Take breaks often. Limit the use of electronic screens. Essentially, take it easy for a day or two but it’s not recommended to lay in bed all day.
Eat As If Your Brain Depends On It
Having a dietary plan to reduce inflammation will maximise the brain’s recovery. Big things to remove from the diet are refined foods (ie. pasta, bread, muffins, crackers), refined sugar (candies/sweets), gluten, dairy, and aspartame. For many, this way of eating is foreign and seems limited. There are still really tasty ways to eat within these limitations. Consider working with a trained nutritionist or dietician for better guidance and accountability.
A Positive Attitude is Key
Recovering from a concussion is emotionally and mentally challenging. It can be difficult to stay positive while experiencing dizziness and headaches. Be patient and forgiving with yourself. Celebrate the small victories. Showing gratitude has been shown to make a substantial difference in the recovery outcomes. Try not to compare how you feel now to how you felt before the injury. Be present in your recovery process and always look towards a brighter tomorrow.
Follow a Gradual Return to Activity
Once symptoms have improved, it's important to follow a gradual return-to-activity protocol. This process should be guided by a healthcare professional to ensure that you don't rush back into activities too soon, which could worsen symptoms or prolong recovery.
Consider Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care can be a valuable part of your concussion recovery plan. Our doctors and physiotherapist at Nostos Chiropractic in Calgary are experienced in treating concussions and can provide gentle adjustments to support your body's natural healing process.
Monitor Symptoms
Keep track of your symptoms and progress. If you notice any worsening or new symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Regular check-ins with your concussion management team will help ensure you're on the right path to recovery.
Educate Yourself and Others
Understanding concussions and their impact can empower you and those around you to make informed decisions. Share your knowledge with friends and family to raise awareness about the importance of proper concussion management.
Conclusion
Recovering from a concussion requires patience and the right support. At Nostos Clinic, we are committed to providing comprehensive concussion management services to help you return to your normal activities safely. If you or a loved one has experienced a concussion, don't hesitate to reach out to our team in Calgary for expert guidance and care.
For more information on our concussion management services, contact Nostos Clinic today.
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