The best available evidence tells us that gradually returning to activity is very important to recovery. Balancing rest and activity are also important to recovery and a full return to regular activities after concussion. The concept of resting the brain is important and requires staying away from thinking, learning, memorizing, and even things like reading, texting, computer time, and watching TV for the first day or two following an injury. It also includes physical rest. A gradual return to activities, as long as it does not make things worse, is the best approach. You can help by making sure your student – athlete gets rest with both physical and thinking activities and then gradually returns to his/her typical activities. Communication between the student, parents, health professionals, and school staff is vital so that everyone understands the student’s specific needs for getting the proper balance of rest and activity based on his or her individual needs.

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• Return to Learn: Instructional modifications that support a controlled, progressive increase in cognitive activities while the student recovers from a brain injury allowing the student-athlete to participate in classroom activities and learn without worsening symptoms and potentially delaying healing. ​
  
• Return to Play: to participate in a non-medically supervised practice, game, or athletic competition.
  

Return to Play & Return to Learn

Only use the Return to Play Protocols under the guidance of a Healthcare Provider.

​​Smitty's Plan for O​rthopedic Rehabilitation & Training