Strict rest might not be the best medicine for children with concussions

chicago» A Canadian study challenges the idea that physical activity should be avoided until concussion symptoms disappear in children.

A month after their concussions, ongoing or worse symptoms were more common in children and teens who were inactive during the week following injury, compared with those who engaged in physical activity during that first week. Activity was mostly low-impact exercise, including walking and swimming.

The results were similar even among those who early on had three or more concussion symptoms, which can include nausea, headaches and confusion. Physical activity still seemed to reduce chances for lingering symptoms a month after the concussion.

“It’s still important to have caution in the immediate post-injury period,” said lead author Dr. Roger Zemek, an emergency medicine specialist. After a concussion, kids “should always be removed from play and not return that day.”