A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that occurs when the head experiences a sudden jolt or impact, which can happen frequently in workplace accidents. Whether from a slip, trip, fall, or being struck by an object, concussions can disrupt normal brain function and require appropriate care and rest to recover fully.
Understanding Workplace Concussions
Workplace concussions can affect anyone but are common in industries involving manual labour, construction, warehousing, and manufacturing. A head injury at work, such as a slip, trip, fall, or being struck by an object, can cause a concussion. Symptoms often include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and sensitivity to light or noise. Although concussions are often labelled ‘mild’, their impact on cognitive and physical health can be significant if not managed properly.
The Importance of Rest After a Concussion
Rest is critical in the initial recovery phase after a concussion. It allows the brain to heal and reduces the risk of further injury. However, the duration and type of rest needed can vary depending on the severity of the concussion and individual circumstances.
Historically, complete physical and cognitive rest for several days was recommended. Recent research suggests that while rest is important, prolonged inactivity or isolation can slow recovery and affect mental health. A balanced approach involving initial rest followed by a gradual return to normal activities is now considered best practice.
How Long Should You Rest?
Initial Rest Period:
After a workplace concussion, most health professionals advise 24 to 72 hours of relative rest. This means avoiding physically demanding tasks, strenuous exercise, and activities requiring intense concentration, such as screen time or complex problem-solving.
Gradual Return to Activity:
Following the initial rest period, individuals should slowly reintroduce light physical and cognitive activities. This might include short walks, light reading, or simple tasks at work, avoiding anything that worsens symptoms.
Monitoring Symptoms:
It’s essential to monitor how symptoms respond to increased activity. If symptoms worsen, reduce activity and return to rest before attempting to progress again.
Full Return to Work:
Return to full duties depends on symptom resolution and medical clearance. For some, this may take a few days; for others, several weeks or longer. Employers should facilitate a gradual return-to-work plan tailored to the worker’s recovery.
The Role of Osteopaths in Managing Workplace Concussions
Osteopaths play an important role in concussion recovery by focusing on the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Their approach complements medical care and can help address symptoms that impact recovery.
Assessment and Diagnosis:
Osteopaths perform thorough assessments to understand the effects of concussion on posture, muscle tension, balance, and nervous system function. This helps identify contributing factors that may prolong symptoms.
Manual Therapy:
Gentle manual therapy techniques may be used to reduce neck stiffness and headaches often associated with concussions. This can improve blood flow and relieve muscle tension without exacerbating symptoms.
The Watson Technique and Headache Management
In cases where post-concussion headaches are persistent, some osteopaths may use the Watson technique, a specialised approach that focuses on the assessment and treatment of the upper cervical spine. This method, developed to address cervicogenic and migraine-related headaches, involves gentle, sustained pressure applied to specific joints in the neck to identify and relieve dysfunction.
The Watson technique can be particularly helpful in identifying whether neck structures are contributing to ongoing headache symptoms. Its precision allows practitioners to reproduce typical headache symptoms in a controlled manner and relieve them through skilled correction, offering valuable insight and relief to individuals recovering from a workplace concussion.
Rehabilitation and Guidance
Osteopaths provide tailored advice on safe levels of activity and posture correction to support gradual re-engagement in daily and work activities. They may also guide vestibular and balance exercises to aid recovery from dizziness or coordination problems.
Holistic Care:
Since concussion symptoms often overlap with stress, fatigue, and anxiety, osteopaths address these holistically, promoting overall well-being and resilience during recovery.
Additional Tips for Recovery
- Prioritise sleep hygiene to support brain healing.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet.
- Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs, which can impair recovery.
- Communicate openly with your employer about your progress and needs.
- Seek professional help if symptoms persist beyond two weeks or worsen.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If symptoms such as severe headaches, repeated vomiting, loss of consciousness, worsening confusion, or seizures occur, immediate medical evaluation is critical. These may indicate a more serious brain injury requiring urgent care.
In Summary
Resting after a workplace concussion is crucial but should be balanced with a gradual return to activity to promote optimal recovery. Typically, 24 to 72 hours of relative rest followed by monitored re-engagement in daily tasks is recommended. Osteopaths support this process by addressing musculoskeletal and nervous system issues, providing manual therapy—including the Watson technique for persistent headaches—and guiding rehabilitation. Early intervention and personalised care are key to returning safely to work and everyday life.
If you or a colleague experiences a concussion at work, consider consulting an osteopath experienced in concussion and headache management to complement medical care and support your recovery journey.
