Which action best supports concussion management in an adolescent?

Which action best supports concussion management in an adolescent?

• A. Avoid physical activities until cleared by a clinician
• B. Return to sports as tolerated
• C. Engage in high-intensity activities to speed recovery
• D. No restrictions on cognitive activity

Answer: (A)

Protecting the healing brain is the priority in concussion management for adolescents. The best action is to avoid physical activities until a clinician clears the student to return. Jumping back into sports or vigorous exercise too soon can worsen symptoms, increase the risk of a second concussion, and slow overall recovery. A medical clearance step ensures the brain has begun to recover and that a gradual, supervised return-to-activity plan can be followed safely, reducing the chance of complications.

Cognitive activity should be guided by symptoms, with a gradual increase as tolerated, rather than leaving cognition completely unrestricted during recovery. Returning to sports or engaging in high-intensity activity before clearance or while symptoms persist can prolong recovery. No restrictions on cognitive activity isn’t appropriate in the early phase, since the brain needs a careful balance of rest and gradual return to daily tasks.