Why is this study important?
In the not so distant past, we treated athletes with concussion by having them rest as much as possible for as long as necessary. Over the past 10 years, it has become increasingly clear that this was misguided. Athletes who start exercising about 48 hours after their concussion seem to do better and recover more quickly. There is guidance for clinicians to follow a stepwise progression while returning athletes to athletic-related activities; however, where the timing of return to the classroom fits into the progression and if early academic return influences time to return to full sport is less clear. There is some evidence that returning to the classroom and normal daily activities early decreases the risk of post-concussion syndrome, but it is unclear whether returning to full academics earlier may prolong symptoms or delay return to play.