Did You Know...
More than 70% of concussions resolve successfully if managed well within the first four weeks post-injury.4 REAP sees the first four weeks post-injury as a “window of opportunity” to maximize positive outcomes.
REAP works on the premise that a concussion is best managed by an Interdisciplinary Team that includes: the Student/Athlete, the Family, various members of the School Team and the Healthcare Provider Team. The unique perspective from each of these various teams is essential!
The first day of the concussion is considered Day One. The first day of recovery also starts on Day One. REAP can help the Family, School and Healthcare Teams mobilize immediately to maximize recovery during the entire four week “window of opportunity.”
REAP is concussion guidance for ALL students, not just for athletes. Schools have an obligation to support all students post-concussion (regardless of how they sustain their concussion) and while it is advised that all students with a concussion seek health care, schools are obligated to support all students even if their families choose not to seek medical care.
Medical note from Danny Mistry, MD, ATC
An Interdisciplinary Team approach and a commitment to excellence are imperative. Potential complications can be avoided by strict adherence to the standard of care –which is simple, paying attention to detail, communication and collaboration. All members of the Interdisciplinary Team should strive to be on one-page, which empowers and helps facilitate management. Education for all members of the Interdisciplinary Team (healthcare providers, students, coaches, parents, teachers, and support staff) has significant benefits in the thorough care and enduring recovery of the patient with a concussion.
Message to Parents
To maximize your child’s recovery from concussion, double up on the R’s: REDUCE and REST! Insist that your child rest, especially for the first few days following the concussion and slightly cut back extra-curricular and social activities over the four week recovery period. Some symptoms of concussion can be so severe on the first day or two that your child may need to stay home from school. When your child returns to school, he/she should stay clear of any high risk sports, play at recess and physical education classes that risk another hit to the head. Work with your Interdisciplinary Concussion Management Team to determine when your child is safe to return to those physical activities in sports, recess and/or PE classes (see PACE).
Don’t let your child convince you he/she will rest “later” (after the prom, after finals, etc.). Rest must happen immediately! The school team will help your child reduce their academic load [see Adjust/Accommodate]. However, it is your job to help to reduce sensory load at home. Advise your child/teen to:
- Avoid loud group functions (games, dances)
- Limit, (do not fully restrict) video games, text messaging, social media and computer screen time
- Limit, (do not fully restrict) reading and homework
A concussion will almost universally slow reaction time; therefore, driving should not be allowed pending medical approval or until a parent has made the effort to supervise driving again.
Plenty of sleep, quiet, and restful activities after the concussion maximizes your child’s chances for a great recovery! When should your child go back to school? See ADJUST/ACCOMMODATE.