Any concussion specialist who predicts a full recovery and also has timelines for such a prediction is not a true concussion specialist. He just reads publications that are either too old or are published by groups that have a bias against the reality of long term symptoms. Many neuro-psychs hold these biased errant opinions.

Return of full or mostly full function is not a full recovery. Many of these specialists think their patients have recovered fully because the patient has stopped asking for help.

When they stop saying over 90% recover fully, we may start to see some better concussion prevention. Side curtain airbags in cars are designed as concussion prevention devices. We need the same level of prevention effort in sports.

I consider it an oxymoronic statement to predict a full recovery but recommend avoiding further head impacts. This shows that he knows there is a weakened brain after even a full recovery from the concussion. How can this be a full recovery?

Treat the symptoms that can be treated. Get proper rest and nutrition while avoiding further brain stresses from environments (noise and visual), trauma, emotions (anxiety etc), chemicals (MSG, alcohol, caffeine etc ). Learn work-arounds to improve functions, and slowly return to a life that includes many of the functions of the pre-concussion life. Live with hope for the best but be prepared for the worst.

If the specialist is not including these recommendations in his/her treatment plan, they are not true concussion specialists.