Concussion Rehab Exercises
Concussion rehabilitation exercises should be prescribed and supervised by a medical professional, such as a physiotherapist, based on your individual symptoms and recovery progress. The goal of these exercises is to help gradually improve balance, coordination, and cognitive function while avoiding activities that may exacerbate symptoms. Here are some common types of concussion rehab exercises:
Balance Training: These exercises help improve your ability to maintain stability and prevent falls. Examples include:
Standing on one leg with eyes closed
Walking in a straight line, heel-to-toe
Balance board exercises (Bella’s personal favourite)
BOSU ball exercises
Eye-Tracking Exercises: These exercises aim to improve eye movement control, which can be affected by a concussion. Examples include:
Smooth-pursuit exercises: Following a moving object with your eyes
Saccadic exercises: Rapidly shifting your gaze between two fixed points
Many more
Eye therapy can be very taxing. Many survivors find symptoms are exacerbated or feel they need to rest afterwards.
Cognitive Exercises: These exercises help improve cognitive function, such as memory, attention, and processing speed. Examples include:
Puzzles and brain games
Memory exercises and games
Attention and concentration drills
There are many apps available to help with cognitive ability. You can find them in “Community Recommends” on Concussion Connect.
Vestibular Rehabilitation: If your vestibular system (responsible for balance and spatial orientation) is affected, vestibular rehab exercises may be recommended.
Sub-symptom Threshold Exercise: These exercises involve gradually increasing physical activity without exacerbating concussion symptoms. They are performed below the symptom threshold to promote gradual recovery. Using measures such as heart rate to create a threshold limit.
Aerobic Exercise: Low-impact aerobic exercises, such as walking, swimming or stationary cycling, can help improve cardiovascular fitness without placing excessive strain on the brain.
It's crucial to note that not all individuals will require the same exercises, and the intensity and progression of exercises should be personalized based on each person's condition and symptoms. Additionally, never attempt these exercises without proper instruction from a medical professional as some exercises may worsen symptoms if not performed correctly or at the appropriate stage of recovery.
Concussion rehabilitation is a slow and ongoing process. Take it one day at a time!
