If a collegiate soccer player sustains a concussion during a game, and a stepwise return-to-play protocol is initiated, why does prematurely advancing through stages likely exacerbate their condition?

💡 Explanation

Premature advancement in the return-to-play protocol increases the risk of further injury because the neurometabolic cascade following concussion renders the brain vulnerable; therefore, any additional stress increases the risk of symptom exacerbation and prolonged recovery, rather than allowing sufficient time for stabilization.

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