A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump or blow to the head or a hit to the body that causes the brain to move rapidly.

This sudden movement of the brain can cause damage to brain cells and create chemical changes in the skull.

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Steps to Returning from a Concussion

  • Baseline: Get Back to School/Work
    Athletes should return to regular school or non-physical work activities when they no longer experience symptoms from the injury.
  • Step 1: Light Aerobic Activity
    Athletes should exercise by biking, walking, or light jogging for about 5-10 minutes to increase their heart rate. No lifting weights.
  • Step 2: Moderate Activity
    Continue to increase the athlete’s heart rate with moderate jogging, brief running, medium-intensity stationary biking, or moderate weightlifting (less time and/or less weight from their typical routine).
  • Step 3: Heavy, Non-contact Activity
    These activities include sprinting/running, high-intensity stationary biking, regular weightlifting routine, and non-contact sport drills.
  • Step 4: Practice and Full Contact
    The athlete may return to practice and full contact, uncontrolled situations.
  • Step 5: Competition
    The athlete may return to competitive play.

By Hilary Box, PharmD 
Resident Pharmacist  and Mercer University.