Squashing Concussion Myths
What You Need to Know
Concussions are often misunderstood, and unfortunately, some of the myths surrounding them persist—even among medical professionals. Whether you’ve experienced a concussion or know someone who has, understanding the truth about these myths is crucial for proper care and recovery.
Let’s dive into some of the most common concussion myths and uncover the facts!
Myth #1: You Need to Hit Your Head to Have a Concussion
Many believe that concussions only occur when you hit your head, but that’s not the case. A concussion can result from any significant force—like whiplash—that causes the brain to move inside the skull. Even if you haven’t hit your head directly, a concussion can still happen.
Myth #2: You Must Lose Consciousness to Be Diagnosed with a Concussion
Losing consciousness is often associated with concussions, but it’s not necessary for a diagnosis. In fact, less than 10% of people with concussions actually lose consciousness, making it an unreliable indicator.
Myth #3: Rest Until You Feel Better
While rest is important for recovery, the advice to "just rest until you feel better" is outdated. Prolonged inactivity can slow your healing process. By day two or three, it’s essential to start reintroducing light physical and cognitive activities, as long as your symptoms are manageable. Be sure to consult with a concussion-literate provider to guide you through the recovery process.
Myth #4: If Your Symptoms Are Gone, You’re Fully Recovered
Feeling better doesn’t necessarily mean your brain has fully healed. There’s a phase known as the “window of vulnerability,” during which your brain remains metabolically fragile, even if symptoms have resolved. This phase can last up to 30 days, so it's important not to rush back into normal activities too soon.
Myth #5: All You Can Do Is Wait for Recovery
While time plays a role in recovery, you don’t need to simply wait. If your symptoms aren’t improving by day four to seven, it’s time to seek professional help. For certain symptoms like dizziness, waiting beyond day 10 without improvement is a sign to start rehabilitation. Active management can significantly speed up recovery and reduce long-term effects.
Myth #6: Concussions Only Happen to Athletes
A common misconception is that concussions are exclusive to athletes. In reality, concussions can happen from everyday activities—such as car accidents, falls, or even bumping your head on a shelf. You don’t need to play sports to experience a concussion.
Take Action: Spread the Truth About Concussions
These myths create obstacles to getting the proper care needed for recovery. By understanding the truth behind concussions, we can ensure faster treatment and better outcomes.
Download our Concussion Myth-Busting Guide HERE to get a deeper look into these myths and more. Share it with your patients, clients, or anyone recovering from a concussion!
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