In today’s Myth Buster video, we’re exploring the role of early exercise in concussion recovery. Many of us have heard that complete rest is the best course of action after a concussion, but Dr. Caze sheds light on a different approach—introducing exercise early on in the recovery process. As it turns out, starting light, guided exercise sooner rather than later can actually promote faster healing and better outcomes for concussion patients.
Traditionally, people believed that strict rest was the only way to recover from a concussion, but recent research and Dr. Caze’s experience have shown that early, controlled exercise can accelerate recovery. The key here is that the exercise must be properly timed and guided by a specialist. When done correctly, early exercise helps improve blood flow to the brain and supports the brain’s natural healing processes.
Dr. Caze explains that the idea behind early exercise is to stimulate recovery without overwhelming the brain. Simple, low-intensity activities like walking or stationary biking can be introduced under supervision, allowing the brain to gradually adapt to physical exertion. This approach helps patients avoid prolonged symptoms and makes the transition back to normal activities smoother.
What’s important to remember is that not all exercise is created equal when it comes to concussions. Introducing exercise too soon or at too high of an intensity can delay recovery or worsen symptoms. That’s why working with a concussion specialist is essential. Dr. Caze’s expertise in creating individualized recovery programs ensures that patients are engaging in the right amount of activity at the right time, making sure that early exercise aids rather than hinders the healing process.