[Chris2828]

Could someone please give me recommendations for light exercises to maintain a good brain blood flow? what about walking around in the house or cleaning or cooking? My symptoms are too severe at the moment to do anything more exhausting. I hit the 6 month mark soon, but this period of time was full of ups and downs. I'm not sure whether i suffer a prolonged version of the concussion and should rather rest thatn do exercises.

I want to quote this from another thread:

Quote
Results of human and animal studies suggest that premature postconcussive exercise may be deleterious by exacerbating postconcussive symptomatology and disrupting restorative processes. A better understanding of the mechanisms that influence exercise after TBI will contribute to improving guidelines for the return to exercise activities and to the successful use of exercise as a therapeutic tool.
Quote.

This is why I restricted exercises so far.

The doctors in my area are not familiar with a case like me. I rely on this forum.

And last, i would like o post the following link:
http://www.momsteam.com/cerebral-blo...ral-blood-flow

The title says ; 'Exercise Program Helps Post-Concussion Syndrome By Restoring Normal Cerebral Blood Flow'

I never heard this before. So could PCS be the result of a disturbed brain blood flow?

[Eowyn]

When I was starting to exercise, I just walked. At first, I was SUPER slow. I gradually built up speed and stamina.

I also participated in a senior chair yoga class at my local community center (even though I'm not a senior). It was good for stretching and movement but not too intense.

[SuperElectric]

It can be hard to judge how much exercise you should do. I echo Eowyn regarding walking, I think it's the safest way to get moving. I also built my stamina up from shuffling around the block and collapsing in the armchair to yesterday walking 5 1/2 miles up hill and down dale and feeling great afterwards!

Early on I recall one time walking too far and realising I had to walk back, by the time I got back I was having difficulty standing, felt spaced out and had to rest for an hour thinking I'd done some damage but the next day I actually felt better.

I think there must be a benefit both psychologically and physically to getting out and about, I'm sure working the muscles, improving the blood flow to the brain and other organs can only help. But there are times you should rest and take it easy too if you feel tired.

[davOD]

Walking and meditation....In time I would suggest yoga....Take it slow never push it, do what you can...

[Estreetfan]

By the 6 month mark all I could do was the invalid walk outside for 10 or 15 minutes - I would walk then nap then walk a bit more then nap... Wish I'd known about chair yoga. Also if you can get to a pool just doing gentle exercises to stretch your muscles would be good.

[davOD]

Originally Posted by Estreetfan

By the 6 month mark all I could do was the invalid walk outside for 10 or 15 minutes - I would walk then nap then walk a bit more then nap... Wish I'd known about chair yoga. Also if you can get to a pool just doing gentle exercises to stretch your muscles would be good.

Yes chair yoga is very helpful, especially if you struggle with balance problems...I started with a seniors class first, and I used the wall for help...

Yes, the walking and sleep is totally understandable....Hang in there its slow and steady, and don't beat yourself up if you have a setback....Its all about healing in the long run!....

[Lara]

For me it's all in the timing. The main problem I have really these days is with my balance still and that seems to be worse when I don't sleep. If I have a sleepless night I'm extremely careful how adventurous I get that day. I might feel ok to head out for a walk or go to the shops but that can all change in an instant.

So timing is important I think. I work, walk, garden etc when I feel good and I don't when I don't feel quite right.