How Long Does a Concussion Last?
New York Sports Medicine Institute
Concussion Specialist and Orthopedic in NYC
The New York Sports Medicine Institute is a Credentialed ImPACT® Consultant, offering both baseline and follow-up ImPACT® (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing); the most comprehensive and validated tool for concussion evaluation and management.
We offer a variety of services for concussion patients that emphasize a proper diagnosis and accommodations needed throughout the recovery process. The New York Sports Medicine Institute is a trusted and respected orthopedic in NYC as well as an expert on concussion management plans, recoveries, and services. Visit our website for more information on our locations and services.
Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion
When a concussion occurs, it is of the utmost importance to receive an accurate diagnosis. After a blow, bump or hit to the head, a concussion temporarily disrupts the way the brain functions. While in a concussed state, the brain is in a fragile position. The patient may experience decreased mental stamina and may experience difficulty performing what are typically simple tasks.
If you experience a concussion during a sporting event or game, it is important to seek medical attention. Do not resume play in the game, as further injury can be highly detrimental and cause lasting damage to the brain.
How Long Does A Concussion Last?
Roughly 80% of concussions resolve themselves in one to two weeks’ time, typically around ten days. If an athlete sustains a concussion, they should never return to play sooner than one week from the time that the injury was initially sustained. Proper rest and time to heal are essential for a complete recovery post-concussion.
Phases of Recovery:
Acute Phase:
The Acute phase post-concussion consists of the first one to two weeks after the initial injury. In this phase of recovery, rest is essential. It might benefit you to take time off from school or work, as these activities tend to require high levels of concentration, memory retention, and cognition. All of these functions are compromised when a concussion is experienced. Additionally, bright lights, loud music, television, and driving might best be avoided, as they too can put added stress on your brain’s functionality. In the acute phase of recovery, sleep and restfulness are to be accentuated.
If you want to remain active during this time period, going on short walks is a healthy alternative to more aggressive forms of exercise like weightlifting or higher intensity cardio. If you partake in these activities while in the acute phase of recovery, you run the risk of reinjuring your brain and suffering from something called second-impact syndrome. This occurs when the brain sustains a second injury soon after an initial concussion and can have permanent effects on your cognitive ability, resulting in mental deficits or even death.
Recovery Phase:
Once the initial symptoms of a concussion begin to fade, and the patient begins to reintegrate physical activities, school, or work into their routine, they enter the recovery phase. Previously, concussions were typically graded on a scale of severity ranging from Grade 0 (least severe) to Grade 4 (most severe); however, the American Academy of Neurology has moved away from this system and urges medical professionals to analyze concussions on an individual case-by-case basis. No two concussions are alike in that each individual may have varying symptoms, degrees of severity, or treatment plans needed for proper recovery. Though someone you know may have only taken X amount of weeks or months to recover fully from their concussion, this does not mean that you can ascribe that as an appropriate benchmark to base your healing process on. It is especially important to be mindful of this in young patients who have experienced a concussion, as there are a tremendous amount of variables at play in a young, growing brain.
For more information on concussion signs, symptoms, and recovery, click here.
New York Sports Medicine Institute:
Concussion Care and Orthopedic in NYC
In conclusion, it is best practice to visit a trusted medical professional when in the process of diagnosing and healing from a concussion. The New York Sports Medicine Institute specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of concussions. If in search of a concussion specialist or an orthopedic in NYC, visit our website to find a location near you and to schedule an appointment.