Total mental rest isn't necessarily best after concussions

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WPVI) -- We've all heard 'rest is best' after concussions, that kids should rest both their body and their mind.

That means many are told to avoid television, digital devices and a lot of school-work.

But studies are now showing too much mental rest for prolonged periods may do more harm than good, leading to prolonged symptoms.

"I don't tell people anymore to avoid TV or the phone or the computer, says Dr. Andrew Russman, a concussion specialist at Cleveland Clinic.

Experts now recommend: allow kids to use their devices and watch TV, but in small doses, slowly rising back to normal levels.

If they get a headache or other symptoms, back off.

"You give them an exposure that doesn't worsen their symptoms and I think it's much more beneficial to do that then allow them to be completely shut off from these activities," says Dr. Andrew Russman, a concussion specialist at Cleveland Clinic.

Dr.Russman also says a few days off school can be helpful.

However, when kids are kept home for a prolonged period of time, they can develop anxiety about getting behind on their school work and social activities, and become deconditioned to the typical mental, social, and physical activity of a school day.