New research on treating athletes with concussions has shown that aerobic exercise therapy plays a crucial role in accelerating recovery.
This finding is surprising, as the traditional treatment for concussions involved isolating patients in darkened rooms, a practice known in the medical community as cocoon therapy.
Dr. Travis Miller of Penn State University’s School of Sports Medicine explains, “For decades, adolescent concussion patients struggled to recover when isolated from the outside world. The newer approach involves reintegrating them into normal life and incorporating exercise to speed up their recovery.”
Dr. Miller adds that treatment begins approximately 24 to 48 hours after the injury, starting with gentle exercises supervised by professional trainers.
Experts recommend a gradual return to exercise, starting with light cardio such as walking or using a stationary bike. The intensity of the exercises can be increased gradually as symptoms subside.
Ultimately, Miller cautions against athletes rushing back to full activity, as a rapid and intense return to training and play can increase their risk of re-injury.