Controlled trial of treatment for cerebral concussion

Abstract

In a study designed to compare two types of treatment of cerebral concussion, 178 patients were allocated to a routine treatment or to an active treatment group; in the latter a good prognosis was emphasized, the patient was mobilized early and given physiotherapy. In the routine treatment group the average time off work was 32 days compared with 18 days in the active treatment group. Physiotherapy seemed to be particularly valuable in old patients and in those with exaggerated fears about their condition. It is suggested that throughout their illness and follow-up, patients with cerebral concussion should be under the care of one doctor, one who is particularly interested in the subject and that more propaganda is needed