New scanning technique reveals how concussion damages the brain

An advanced brain scanning technique has shown for the first time in humans how concussion damages the brain and its wiring, findings that cast doubt on the effectiveness of conventional assessment tools used by doctors. This new understanding of the physical damage to the brain and the time frame for recovery suggests athletes should not be cleared to play less than two weeks after a concussion and should probably be shelved much longer, said Alex Rauscher, an MRI scientist and Canada Research Chair in the department of pediatrics at the University of British Columbia.