RECOVER
Rest. Recover. Gradually Return
Complications of concussion can be long lasting and serious. Minimise the risk - follow the recovery protocol:
DAYS 0-2
INCIDENT and first aid response
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Concussion medical DIAGNOSIS
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FIRST 48 HOURS complete REST. No contact, high-risk, sporting or learning activities
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DAYS 3-4
GRADUAL return to daily LIVING ACTIVITIES
NO CONTACT OR HIGH RISK ACTIVITIES
Light aerobic exercise
(e.g. short walks)Start graded return to school or work
(consider shortened hours, reduced work load, quiet environment, and reduced social activities)
(Mild symptoms are acceptable if temporary and diminishing)
Persistent symptoms or deterioration?
Pause progress, refer to healthcare practitioner for review and advice
REVIEW by healthcare practitioner
↓
DAYS 5-14+
GRADUAL return to exercise and SPORTING ACTIVITIES
STILL NO CONTACT OR HIGH RISK ACTIVITIES
Stationary sport-specific skills with minimal head movements
(e.g. partner passing drills, front-facing only)
↓Moderate walking and/or stationary bike exercise
↓Sport-specific skills with head movements
(e.g. drills with directional changes or rotations)
↓Resistance training, increase sport-specific drills
(up to 90% of full training)
↓Return to full capacity school work (or employment)
Persistent symptoms or deterioration?
Pause progress, refer to healthcare practitioner for review and advice
WHEN SYMPTOM-FREE for 14 days straight, REVIEW by healthcare practitioner
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AFTER 14 DAYS SYMPTOM-FREE and MEDICAL CLEARANCE
CAREFUL return to full CONTACT SPORT ACTIVITIES
MUST FIRST BE CLEARED BY A HEALTHCARE PRACTITIONER
Return to full contact training
↓Return to competition simulation
Persistent symptoms or deterioration?
Pause progress, refer to healthcare practitioner for review and advice
↓
DAY 21+ and SYMPTOM-FREE FOR 14+ DAYS
↓
RETURN to COMPETITION
