NFL’s five-step plan

Before being allowed to play or practice again, Rob Gronkowski must proceed through the five steps of the NFL’s concussion protocol:

1. Rest and recovery The player is prescribed rest until his signs, symptoms and neurologic examination, including cognitive and balance tests, return to baseline status.

2. Light aerobic exercise Under direct oversight of the team’s medical staff, the player should begin graduated cardiovascular exercise and may also engage in dynamic stretching and balance training.

3. Introduction of strength training

The player continues supervised cardiovascular exercise that are increased and may mimic sport-specific activities. Supervised strength training also can begin.

4. Football specific activities

Non-contact football activities (i.e. throwing, catching, running and other position-specific activities) are added to the exercises the player was already undertaking.

5. Full football activity/ clearance

Once cleared by the team physician for football activity and contact, the player must be examined by an independent neurological consultant. If the consultant concurs with team physician, the player may participate in next practice or game.