Concussion, Sleep & The Glymphatic System
After a concussion, your brain may feel gunked up. How do we clean it and get it running like new again?
WORK ON GETTING BETTER SLEEP!
No amount of Branch Basics can compare to the glymphatic system - your brain's nighttime trash removal and cleaning crew!
The scientific community continues to learn about its role in brain health, but we do know the glymphatic system kicks into high gear when you’re sleeping, flushing out brain gunk and getting your brain fresh and ready for a new day.
When your brain is recovering from a concussion, it needs all the help it can get to clear out the debris and heal. That’s why quality sleep is so crucial for concussion recovery - it’s when your glymphatic system works overtime to repair and rejuvenate. This may be why folks who have disrupted sleep for 10 days or more after a concussion are at a significantly higher risk for prolonged symptoms.
This, paired with active rehabilitation (of your vision, vestibular system, cervical injury and exercise intolerance), will get your brain back to squeaky clean in no time!
Here are 5 quick tips for getting better sleep:
Stick to a regular sleep schedule.
Naps are okay - and encouraged!
Create a relaxing bedtime routine.
Keep your sleep environment cool, dark, and quiet.
Limit caffeine and heavy meals before bed.
Get some exercise during the day.
For more information and a deeper dive, check out this link.