As usual the Big Sky Athletic Training and Sports Medicine Conference “Concussion Day” was superb! As a clinical sports psych and traumatic brain injury treatment specialist I will share the pertinent information which informs my practice appropriately. 1) Returning to activity particularly exercise has been proven in milder TBI cases to reverse/heal the vestibular and Neuro ocular system’s disfunction concurrently. Dr. Mickey Collins of the University of Pittsburgh medical center speculates and is actively researching what the exact window is. In the past individuals were told to restrict actively and isolate themselves from stimulating situations for weeks on end until the symptoms just went away. This is no longer protocol. Introducing activity as soon as the 48-72 hour time frame post concussion is producing better long term recovery outcomes. 2) Early intervention through psych education on expectations of recovery and current symptoms inventory from a qualified psychotherapist can increase the full recovery outcome of post concussion symptoms by up to 30%! 3) In addition to psycho-Ed Psychotherapy of any kind should be administered as soon as possible following a concussion to prevent prolonged anxiety and or depression symptoms. 4) If the proper protocol is followed following a concussion and an individual fully recovers and then suffers another concussion. As long as the concussions are being treated appropriately the length of time for recovery has been documented as not being any longer than if the individual had suffered only one concussion. In conclusion the most pertinent part of recovery is the early intervention of a medical doctor, neuropsychologist and psychologist to get a proper assessment is pertinent for quicker and full recovery following a concussion! When in doubt reach out and get checked out! If you want to know more about how the current research applies to you don’t hesitate to reach out! #concussions #mtbi #healconcussions #traumaticbraininjury #bsatsmc2019 #bsatsmc #mickeycollins #psychotherapy #neurosciences #neuropsychology #sportsmedicine #sportspsychology #sports #brainhealth #fortheloveofthegame #lovesports #exercise (at Big Sky Resort) https://www.instagram.com/p/BtmTlJzANyx/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=o5srh5nk72bz