How do you return to normal activity after a mild traumatic brain injury?

In mild TBI cases, relative rest with reduced screen time is recommended for 24 to 48 hours. Relative rest can include normal daily activities like reading or walking. A return to physical activity starts with safe, low intensity aerobic exercise such as stationary cycling. A progressive increase in cognitive load with close monitoring of symptoms to evaluate any exacerbations can also begin after 24 to 48 hours. This might take some time and require cooperation from a school or work environment. For example, a person with a TBI may need extra time to complete a project. As more physical activity and cognitive load is reintroduced, only minor worsening of symptoms should be tolerated. If symptoms are severe, or last for more than 2 hours after the activity, then the level of activity should be reduced again the following day. In some cases, a referral to a specialist might be warranted. A doctor should be consulted before returning to a high intensity training program or a contact sport.^{[1] [2]}