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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Linda Geddes Science correspondent

Athletes should avoid total rest after mild concussion, say experts

Ellie Scotney (blue/white shorts) defeats Cherneka Johnson during a boxing match at Wembley Arena.
The Concussion in Sport Group of researchers and clinicians provides advice for the care of athletes at risk of brain injury. Photograph: Philip Sharkey/TGS Photo/Shutterstock

Athletes who have experienced a mild concussion should avoid total rest and resume light physical and mental activities to aid their recovery, according to a consensus statement issued by more than 100 international researchers and clinicians.

The statement, which took more than five years to complete and was informed by 10 systematic reviews of concussion-related evidence, updates previous guidance to avoid all physical activity until symptoms are completely resolved. It contradicts recent UK guidance to avoid contact sport for 21 days after sustaining a concussion and avoid any form of training for 14 days.

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