Concussion Supplements That Actually Work: What the Latest Research Says

Concussions are complex—and so is recovery. While rest and graded return-to-activity remain the foundation, research now supports a range of nutritional strategies to help the brain heal more efficiently.

A 2024 review published in Nutrients (PMC11314487) outlines how targeted supplements may reduce inflammation, support energy metabolism, and enhance cognitive recovery following concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).

At Vertex PT Specialists, we help patients throughout Columbia, Irmo, Cayce, and West Columbia recover from concussion symptoms with individualized care—and when appropriate, we integrate the latest evidence on supplements into our approach.

Columbia, SC Concussion Experts: What Supplements Actually Help?

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA/DHA)

• Dose: 2–4 grams/day
• Why: Reduce neuroinflammation, promote repair of damaged neuronal membranes
• Clinical Note: Especially helpful for athletes or students recovering from sports-related concussion

Creatine Monohydrate

• Dose: 10–20 grams/day, split into 2–4 doses
• Why: Boosts brain energy and mitochondrial function—especially important in the early stages of recovery
• Bonus: Also supports muscle recovery, making it useful for active individuals

Magnesium

• Dose: ~400 mg/day
• Why: Supports neurotransmitter regulation and better sleep, both of which are critical during concussion recovery
• Pro Tip: Ask your physical therapist which form of magnesium is best for your symptoms

Vitamin D

• Dose: 2,000–5,000 IU/day
• Why: May support vestibular system and reduce long-term post-concussion symptoms

Citicoline (Choline)

• Dose: 1–2 grams/day
• Why: Aids in brain cell membrane repair and memory function

Other Nutrients That May Help With Concussion Recovery

• Vitamin E – Protects brain cells from oxidative stress
• Riboflavin (B2) – May reduce headache frequency
• N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) – Supports glutathione, your brain’s primary antioxidant
• Wild Blueberry Extract – Improves cognitive function and memory
• Boswellia Serrata – Anti-inflammatory plant compound
• BCAAs – May help balance excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters after concussion

Our Columbia-Based Approach to Concussion Recovery

Concussion recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. At Vertex PT, we serve patients from Forest Acres to West Columbia, offering individualized physical therapy and vestibular rehabilitation for post-concussion syndrome.

We’re not just focused on rest—we look at the big picture: movement, nutrition, sleep, visual tracking, and return-to-play.

We stay current with the evidence so you don’t have to. And we’re always happy to coordinate with your primary care physician or neurologist to support safe recovery.

Schedule With a Concussion Specialist in Columbia, SC

Whether you’re dealing with persistent symptoms or just want a plan that supports full recovery, we’re here to help.

Contact us to schedule a one-on-one evaluation with a licensed physical therapist experienced in treating concussions across Columbia and the Midlands.