ABSTRACT
Prescribing rest is one of the most common interventions for concussion. Rest is thought to have two primary objectives: (1) to promote recovery and (2) to prevent reinjury. How much rest should be obtained prior to returning to activity, school, or work, however, has been the subject of ongoing research. If patients resume activity too soon, they may be at an increased risk for further injury; however, if they are kept from returning for too long, they may be at risk for developing adverse physical and/or mental health conditions. After first providing a historical context, this chapter will outline the theoretical bases for the role of rest in concussion management, review evidence from the observational studies and clinical trials that contribute to our current understanding of the safety and efficacy of rest (and conversely, of activity resumption), summarize contemporary clinical practice recommendations that pertain to rest, and integrate these into practical recommendations for clinicians.
