Individualized Aerobic Exercise Speeds Recovery from Sports-Related Concussion

Rest from exercise has been a hallmark of postconcussion recovery care. However, there is new evidence indicating that some moderate exercise before complete symptom resolution might reduce concussion recovery time.

In the current trial, 103 adolescents aged 13 to 18 years presenting within 10 days of a sports-related concussion were randomized to either individualized subsymptom threshold aerobic exercise (i.e., exercise at a heart rate just below that which causes symptoms) on a stationary bike or treadmill or a placebo activity (stretching routine) for 20 minutes per day. Exercise tolerance was assessed using the Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test. The number of days from injury to recovery was the primary outcome. Recovery was defined as …