What is the main initial management for post-concussion syndrome?

• A. Pharmacologic pain control
• B. Physical and cognitive rest
• C. Immediate return to activity
• D. Cognitive and physical rest

Answer: (D)

Rest is the foundation of initial management after a concussion. The brain’s energy demands are disrupted after injury, so reducing both physical exertion and cognitive load helps symptoms improve and supports healing. Cognitive rest means limiting activities that require attention and processing—heavy studying, screen time, reading, driving—especially when headaches or dizziness are present. Physical rest means avoiding strenuous exercise and contact sports until symptoms settle. The approach is to rest briefly, then gradually and symptom-limited return to activity with careful monitoring, rather than pushing back to full activity too soon. Pharmacologic pain control or an immediate return to activity don’t address the need to limit brain stimulation during the early recovery phase.