Activities that Can Impede Healing or Worsen Your Condition
It’s estimated that as many as 3 million Americans seek medical care every year because of a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Though most mild traumatic brain injuries fully heal within two to four weeks, there are certain activities that can exacerbate symptoms, slow down healing or actually make your injury worse. Let’s look at some of the things you shouldn’t do when recovering from any type of traumatic brain injury.
Don’t Engage in Activities that Are Physically Taxing
After any type of TBI, one of the most important things your brain and body need is rest, so that damaged or torn tissue can heal and swelling and inflammation can subside. Quick movements or strenuous activities can compromise damaged cells and tissue and delay recovery or worsen your condition. Avoid recreational activities until cleared by your doctor. That includes brisk walking, running, jogging, aerobics, bicycling and even house or yard work. If your job requires repetitive stress, lifting, pushing, pulling, bending or squatting, you need to stay home from work.
Don’t Tax Your Brain, Either
Many mental activities can also be detrimental to recovery from a traumatic brain injury. Even though you want to know that your cognitive skills have come through unscathed, you need to let your brain heal first. Don’t engage in activities that require intense or stressful mental gymnastics or effort, such as puzzles or games. Stay away from most types of screens, including videos, smartphones and computers. Soothing music is fine, but save the head-banging stuff for after your recovery.
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer any type of concussion, TBI or traumatic brain injury. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas and San Antonio.
