Are there any supplements that can aid in concussion recovery in adolescents?

No Supplements Have Been Proven to Help Concussion Recovery in Adolescents

There are currently no supplements that have been proven effective for concussion recovery in adolescents based on current evidence-based guidelines. 1, 2

Current Evidence-Based Approach to Concussion Management

Initial Management

• Brief relative rest (24-48 hours) is recommended after concussion 2
• Avoid both strict complete rest and high-intensity physical activity, as both can worsen outcomes 2
• Under no circumstances should adolescents with concussion return to play the same day of their concussion 1

Recommended Recovery Protocol

1. Controlled Activity Progression - The most evidence-supported approach:

   • Begin subsymptom threshold aerobic exercise after initial rest period 2
   • Follow a stepwise return-to-activity protocol 1, 2:
     • No activity (complete physical and cognitive rest)
     • Light aerobic activity (walking, swimming, stationary cycling at 70% maximum heart rate)
     • Sport-specific exercise (no head impact)
     • Noncontact training drills
     • Full-contact practice (after medical clearance)
     • Return to play

2. Rehabilitation Approaches with some evidence:

   • For persistent symptoms, targeted interventions may include 2:
     • Graded physical exercise
     • Vestibular rehabilitation (for dizziness/balance issues)
     • Vision therapy (for visual symptoms)
     • Cognitive rehabilitation (for attention/memory difficulties)

Why Supplements Are Not Recommended

The 2023 consensus statement from the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation conducted a comprehensive evidence review of concussion treatments and did not identify any supplements with sufficient evidence to recommend their use 1. This review examined numerous therapeutic interventions for concussion management but found no evidence supporting supplement use.

Important Considerations for Adolescents

• Adolescents typically have longer recovery periods than adults, often 7-10 days or more 1
• Each stage of the return-to-play protocol should take at least 24 hours, with a minimum of 5 days to progress through the protocol 1, 2
• A return of symptoms indicates inadequate recovery and requires returning to the previous step 1

Pitfalls to Avoid

• Prolonged complete rest can worsen outcomes and should be avoided 2
• Premature return to high-risk activities increases risk of second-impact syndrome, especially in younger patients 2
• Overlooking the impact on academics is a common pitfall in concussion management 2
• Approximately 15-20% of concussion patients develop post-concussion syndrome, requiring more specialized care 2

Special Considerations

• Athletes with 3+ concussions in a season or symptoms persisting >3 months should be considered for prolonged time away from sports 2
• Medical clearance from a licensed healthcare provider trained in concussion management is required before full return to play 2

Despite the lack of evidence for supplements, the focus should remain on established protocols for concussion recovery, including appropriate rest, gradual return to activity, and specialized rehabilitation interventions for persistent symptoms.