How to Manage Screen Time After a Concussion for Faster Recovery

Oct 19

In recent years, the advice around screen time after a concussion has evolved, with research now highlighting the importance of controlled screen time during recovery. While early recommendations focused on complete screen avoidance, new studies suggest that gradually reintroducing screen use can aid in symptom management and mental well-being. This blog delves into the latest research on post-concussion screen time, discussing why balancing screen exposure is crucial for recovery and providing practical tips to manage screen use without exacerbating symptoms like headaches or dizziness. Backed by research articles, this guide offers insights to help you optimize your screen use while healing from a concussion.

The Impact of screen time on concussion recovery

The understanding of screen time management after a concussion has evolved significantly over the years. Initially, many were advised to completely avoid screens to facilitate recovery, but recent research suggests a more balanced approach is beneficial. Studies indicate that while limiting screen time in the first 24 to 48 hours can aid recovery, complete abstinence may lead to social isolation and additional mental health issues

Does Screen Time Affect Concussion Recovery?

Studies now show that completely avoiding screens might not be necessary or even beneficial. Controlled and moderated screen time, in fact, could be an essential part of cognitive engagement and recovery, helping individuals gradually reintroduce visual and cognitive stimuli without overwhelming the brain.

Are you struggling to manage symptoms after a concussion? At Happy Brain Physical Therapy, we offer expert guidance and personalized strategies to help you recover fully, including advice on managing screen time. Learn more about our comprehensive online program, The Concussion Solution: Master Program, designed to support your healing journey.

Take the next step toward recovery— start feeling better today!

The Importance of Controlled Screen Time After a Concussion

After a concussion, managing screen time is critical for promoting recovery. Research has shown that excessive screen use in the first 48 hours after a concussion can lengthen recovery time and worsen symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and cognitive fatigue. It's important to strike a balance—completely avoiding screens might not be necessary, but overuse can slow down recovery.

Moderating screen use helps reduce the strain on your brain during its healing process. Overuse of screens can overstimulate the brain and exacerbate symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. Controlled, short bursts of screen exposure can help maintain cognitive engagement without overwhelming the brain, making it part of a more holistic recovery plan.

While these studies all have limitations, the guidelines appear to be moving away from the notion of total screen avoidance (at least after the first 48 hours) and moving toward an approach that reflects a more balanced recovery strategy.

How controlled screen use aids in concussion recovery

The research that indicates that controlled screen use after a concussion can be beneficial for recovery also recognizes that excessive screen time can worsen symptoms such as headaches and visual disturbances.

Moderate screen time helps individuals maintain social connections, access educational content, and reduce isolation, which can be crucial for mental health during recovery. After the initial 48 hours of rest, gradually reintroducing screen time in manageable intervals, while monitoring symptoms, is recommended for balanced recovery.

Studies have shown that moderate screen use can prevent social disconnection and its negative mental health impacts, which could delay recovery. On the other hand, limiting screen time to small, controlled doses helps prevent symptom overload without isolating the patient from necessary communication tools

Why Controlled Screen Time Matters

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics highlighted that individuals who avoided screen time immediately after a concussion recovered in a shorter amount of time compared to those who did not. The study found that too much screen time in the first few days after injury led to a prolonged recovery period, emphasizing the importance of managing this type of stimulus during the acute phase of concussion recovery.

However, moderation is key. Rather than eliminating screens altogether, it's about pacing usage to prevent overstimulation while allowing some cognitive engagement.

Tips for Managing Screen Time After a Concussion:

Limit exposure to short intervals: Try using screens in 15-20 minute intervals with breaks in between.
Reduce brightness: Dimming the screen or using "night mode" can reduce visual strain.
Choose tasks wisely: Opt for less stimulating activities like reading emails instead of gaming or watching action-packed videos.

If screen use continues to worsen symptoms even with controlled exposure, or if symptoms like dizziness, headaches, or visual disturbances persist beyond two weeks, it’s time to consult a healthcare provider. For personalized guidance, consider visiting Happy Brain Physical Therapy for expert advice on managing post-concussion symptoms, including screen time regulation.

Ready to optimize your recovery? Explore The Concussion Solution: Master Program for a comprehensive online approach to healing, with expert advice on managing screen time and other recovery strategies.

Schedule a free 15 minute Consultation