A member asked:

Could you tell me what happens when you work out (or lift weights) with a concussion?

8 doctors weighed in across 5 answers
Dr. Soren Singel answered

Specializes in Neurosurgery

Brain swelling: Working out increases blood pressure and blood flow to brain, which may increase risk of swelling. Rarely, it may cause rupture of a previously weakened blood vessel - potentially leading to brain bleed/ hemorrhage.

Answered 8/24/2013

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TBI & wt. lifting: After concussion, participating in mild exercise is helpful. If you are going to be involve, start slowly, building up slowly based on your tolerance. Do not get yourself exhausted as it might set you back.

Answered 8/26/2013

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Bad idea: You should definitely not lift weights or do ANY strenuous exercise until your concussion symptoms are completely resolved. You run the risk of worsening your symptoms and prolonging your recovery time. It would be best to get checked by your doctor.

Answered 5/8/2015

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Dr. Christopher Conti answered

Specializes in Emergency Medicine

BRAIN INJURY: When the brain is concussed, calcium leaks into brain cells. The cells must then pump the calcium out in order to restore normal cell function. This requires energy. Any activity that takes energy away from brain healing delays recovery which is why cognitive and physical rest are critical to successful recovery. Recovery should be coordinated & monitored by a trained clinician.

Answered 4/9/2016

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Exercise & concussio: Light work out while recovering from concussion should not be a problem. However, if you are straining too much it may cause excessive fatigue and return of any cognitive symptoms you may have experienced.

Answered 8/30/2013

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