Brain rest is commonly prescribed following a concussion, and this includes limiting scren time (TVs, phones, tablets, computers). Of course, countless kids rely on computers and smartphones to remain connected with their peers. But a new study has shown that the full removal of these screens may end up causing feelings of disconnection, loneliness, and a lack of social support. While too much screen time can slow down any concussion or traumatic brain injury victim’s recovery time, new research indicates that prohibiting screen time altogether in these situations may actually do more harm than good.
Focus of the Screen Time Study
The study in question was part of a project referred to as Advancing Concussion Assessment in Pediatrics, which was led by a psychology professor and funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.
The researchers in this study studied the self-reported screen time of over 700 children between the ages of 8 and 16 in the first 10 days after a brain injury. They gathered data from participants who incurred either concussions or orthopedic injuries like broken arms or sprained ankles. The data from the children with orthopedic injuries helped to contrast that taken from the brain injury victims.
Researchers then tracked the children’s symptoms over the next half a year. The study ultimately found that the concussion symptoms resolved most quickly when the injured children received a moderate amount of screen time.
Goldilocks Groups
The medical doctor who performed the study commented that the study involved so-called “Goldilocks” groups because it seems that spending too much or little on screens is not the best solution for recovery from a concussion. Ultimately, according to the researchers, the study reveals that the common suggestions to avoid screen time after a concussion might not be the best solution.
Children today utilize screens all the time, for school, for entertainment, for communication, and for gaming. Complete removal of these screens could result in feelings of loneliness and disconnection. These things ultimately negatively impact children’s health during the sensitive recovery period.
What Makes This Study Different?
This study is distinct from one performed in 2021 in the United States because this study considered both screen and recovery time over a longer duration of time. The previous study determined that screen time delayed recovery, but those researchers only assessed screen use during the first 48 hours and only tracked victims’ symptoms for 10 days.
The longer timeline utilized in the Canadian study led the researchers to discover that the amount of time spent in front of screens during the early recovery period made little change in long-term health outcomes.
Do Not Hesitate to Contact a Concussion / Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been harmed in an accident and another party is responsible, you should not hesitate to speak with a skilled lawyer. Contact House Law LLC today to schedule a free case evaluation.
Tags: brain injury, personal injury, traumatic brain injury
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