Does Icing Help a Concussion? The Do’s and Don’ts After a Concussion
An ice pack is often the first thing people reach for after a concussion.
Cooling therapy is commonly used for swelling and inflammation in musculoskeletal injuries, but does it actually help with a concussion? Unlike a sprained ankle or a bruised muscle, a concussion is a brain injury, and its recovery process is vastly different.
Several studies have explored the role of cooling therapy in concussion management.
One such study, The Utility of Therapeutic Cooling in Sport-Related Concussion, found that while ice therapy may provide symptom relief for headaches and minor swelling, its overall impact on brain recovery is uncertain (Human Kinetics, 2024). Cooling therapy is often used in the acute stages of traumatic brain injury (TBI) to reduce intracranial pressure, but in cases of mild concussions, there is no strong evidence supporting its effectiveness in accelerating recovery.
The 6th International Conference on Concussion in Sport also touched on cooling therapy as a potential post-concussion strategy, particularly in ice hockey, where players frequently use cold packs for pain relief. However, the consensus remains that while ice may help with immediate symptom relief, it does not address the underlying neurological impact of a concussion (Amsterdam, 2022).
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May provide localized relief for minor swelling or tenderness around impact sites.
Can offer a soothing effect, especially if the head or neck area is sore.
Why Icing Is Not a Concussion Treatment:
Does not address the biochemical changes in the brain following a concussion.
Does not improve cognitive symptoms such as brain fog, dizziness, or light sensitivity.
May provide a false sense of improvement, leading to premature return to activity.
Given these findings, icing can be a supportive symptom-management tool but should not replace evidence-based concussion recovery strategies.
The Do’s After a Concussion
While icing has limited impact, several well-established approaches are known to support concussion recovery.
Prioritize Rest and Recovery After a concussion, the brain needs time to heal. While complete bed rest is no longer the standard recommendation, reducing physical and cognitive strain in the first 24 to 48 hours is essential. This means avoiding intense physical activity, screen time, and mentally demanding tasks.
Gradual Return to Activity Research shows that light aerobic exercise, such as walking, can be beneficial after the initial rest period. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine suggests that monitored, symptom-limited activity can aid recovery by improving blood flow and reducing symptoms.
Hydration and Nutrition Dehydration and poor nutrition can worsen concussion symptoms. Drinking water and consuming anti-inflammatory foods such as leafy greens, fatty fish, and berries may support recovery.
Seek Professional Evaluation Every concussion is different. Seeing a healthcare provider, especially one trained in concussion management, can help determine the best course of recovery. Athletic trainers, sports medicine physicians, and neuropsychologists can use evidence-based tools to assess cognitive function and monitor symptom progression throughout recovery.
Manage Symptoms Appropriately Headaches, nausea, and dizziness are common post-concussion symptoms. Rather than relying on icing alone, symptom management strategies like regulated rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relief (as recommended by a doctor) can be more effective. Vestibular therapy, neuropsychological assessments, and structured rehabilitation plans may be necessary for individuals experiencing persistent symptoms.
The Don’ts After a Concussion
Just as important as knowing what to do is understanding what to avoid.
Don’t Return to Play Too Soon: Objective testing should be used alongside symptom tracking to ensure a safe return to play. The 6th International Consensus on Concussion in Sport emphasizes the importance of a stepwise return-to-play protocol (Amsterdam, 2022).
Don’t Over-Rely on Ice Therapy As mentioned earlier, while icing may provide temporary relief, it is not a substitute for proper medical care and cognitive rest.
Don’t Use Screens Excessively Bright screens from phones, tablets, and computers can worsen symptoms such as headaches and eye strain. Limiting screen time in the first few days after a concussion can help reduce discomfort.
Don’t Ignore Persistent Symptoms If symptoms persist beyond a few weeks, it may indicate a prolonged recovery requiring further evaluation from a specialist. Research shows that professional athletes in contact sports, such as ice hockey, often experience anxiety or prolonged cognitive symptoms following a concussion (ProQuest). Consulting a specialist, such as a neuropsychologist or sports medicine physician, can be beneficial in these cases.
What the Research Says About Concussion Recovery
While cooling therapy has been explored as a treatment option, there is little evidence suggesting it accelerates brain healing. Instead, research emphasizes the importance of early intervention, guided return to activity, and symptom management tailored to the individual.
Icing a concussion may help with headache relief, but it does not impact brain recovery.
The best approach to concussion management involves proper rest, professional evaluation, and a gradual return to daily activities. Mismanaging a concussion can lead to prolonged symptoms and increased risk for future injuries, making it crucial to follow research-backed guidelines.
If you or someone you know experiences a concussion, consult a healthcare provider trained in concussion management to ensure the best possible recovery path.
