Acute Concussion Guide
Evidence-based strategies for the first 72 hours after concussion. What to do, what to avoid, and how to protect neurologic recovery before your evaluation.
What This Guide Covers
First 72 Hours
Immediate management strategies to protect neurologic recovery and avoid prolonging symptoms.
What Is Actually Happening
A plain-language explanation of the neurometabolic cascade and why the brain is vulnerable after injury.
Activity & Load Management
When to rest, when to move, and how to gauge your physiologic readiness without guessing.
Red Flag Symptoms
Signs that require immediate emergency evaluation, and how to distinguish them from expected recovery symptoms.
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Important Reminders
This guide does not replace medical evaluation. It is not a treatment plan, diagnosis, or prescription. It is intended to support you during the period between injury and your first clinical appointment.
If you experience loss of consciousness, repeated vomiting, seizure, one-sided weakness, slurred speech, or a severe worsening headache, seek emergency care immediately.
Durable recovery from concussion depends on identifying the Primary Constraint, not symptom management alone. This guide helps you protect that process while you wait.
Ready to understand what is driving your symptoms and whether a constraint-based neurologic approach is appropriate?
Request a Neurologic Evaluation