Complete rest necessary for concussions, doctor says

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (KRCU) - Concussions require extended periods of rest and limited physical activity in order to recover quickly. But a Cape Girardeau doctor encourages young athletes to also take a mental break.

Dr. Stephen Jordan, a neuropsychologist at St. Francis Medical Center, says any physical or mental stress extends the length of recovery.

"We not only need to keep the kids from participating in sports and over-stressing themselves physically," Dr. Jordan said. "We also need to cut back on their academic demands to let the brain rest from having to think too hard through that period, and finding that balance between not falling too far behind in their classroom but not pushing them too hard either."

Jordan says reducing the amount of time spent in front of a cell phone, computer, television or any other flashing light will help speed up the recovery time.

The typical recovery period can last from a couple days to eight weeks, depending on the severity of the concussion.

Full participation in any activity should not begin until all signs of a headache have disappeared.

Drew Yount, KRCU

Posted in: concussions,St. Francis Medical Center,Stephen Jordan