Health and Disability

New research suggests delayed treatment for concussion could prolong recovery.

Many college athletes, however, don't immediately recognize or report concussion symptoms, the study of nearly 100 players found. And compared to head-injured athletes who were evaluated right away, those who put off reporting symptoms were sidelined about five days longer on average.

"If you are an athlete and you are experiencing concussion symptoms, you should immediately engage your athletic trainer or team physician so that you can be evaluated," said the study's lead author, Breton Asken.

"Our findings indicate that ... will give you the best chance to return to your sport more quickly," said Asken, a graduate student in the clinical psychology program at the University of Florida.