When determining the best exercise for concussion recovery, avoiding overexertion is important. The best way to recover from a concussion is to gradually increase your exercise frequency. Start by doing a few exercises once or twice a day and increase your exercises as your symptoms improve. Don’t give up. You’ll be surprised how quickly you recover once you start the right exercises.
Seated trunk extension
One of the core exercises for brain injury recovery is seated trunk extension. It involves sitting in a chair and leaning forward. Then, push yourself back up using your arms. Repeat for a set of 15 repetitions on each side. It may seem simple at first, but it can actually help you recover from a concussion faster. You may have to modify the exercise a bit to make it easier.
Cognitive rehabilitation exercises
If you have recently experienced a traumatic brain injury or have suffered a concussion, cognitive rehabilitation can help you return to your regular life. Cognitive rehabilitation exercises help improve cognitive functioning by engaging the visual and auditory systems. Cognitive exercises for concussion recovery may also help you with other symptoms such as depression and anxiety. In addition, a qualified provider of cognitive rehabilitation can help you recover as quickly as possible.
Strength training
It is very important to continue exercising after a concussion, even if your symptoms worsen. Exercise, including strength training, is a vital part of your recovery process. Strength training should be done gradually, starting with a low-intensity routine that you can build up to. Your symptoms should slowly improve, so don’t push yourself too hard too soon. Start slow and build up gradually. It is best to do only a few minutes of exercise a day at first and increase it as you get stronger. Don’t rush back to the gym if you feel uncomfortable or too fatigued.
Vestibular rehabilitation therapy
A physician will look for ocular and vision problems when evaluating a concussion survivor’s condition. These issues include visual acuity, eye tracking, and ease of focus. For example, survivors often report clear 20/20 vision while standing or sitting, but when they move, their vision becomes blurred or is impaired. A doctor will conduct a complete eye examination and determine the appropriate exercises to determine whether vestibular rehabilitation therapy is the best exercise for concussion recovery.
Seated Marching
Sitting marching is a great exercise to perform after a concussion. This simple exercise consists of lifting your affected leg toward your chest, holding it there for a few seconds, and bringing it back down. Repeat this motion five times, alternating between legs. Use your arms to assist your legs to make the exercise less difficult. Try to do at least one minute of this exercise per day.