What is it about?
This systematic review found no evidence that “cocoon therapy” or dark rooms are helpful for youth who sustain concussion. The most rigorous evidence showed restrictive rest may delay recovery. Extreme avoidance strategies are not evidence-based and should be replaced with active recovery approaches.
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Why is it important?
“Dark room” and “cocoon” therapies are still prescribed after pediatric concussion. This systematic review is the first to evaluate the science behind these practices—and finds no evidence they help. In fact, the most rigorous studies show that too much rest can slow recovery. This work helps dispel harmful myths and guides families and clinicians toward modern, evidence-based approaches to support concussion recovery.
Perspectives
I still hear stories of youth told to “cocoon” and stay in dark rooms after concussion—despite expert guidelines moving on years ago. This review confirms what we’ve suspected: there was never evidence for these practices. It’s time to stop repeating potentially harmful myths and start following the science.
Nathan Cook
University of Rhode Island
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Prescribed restrictive rest and sensory deprivation for pediatric concussion: A systematic review of the evidence for so-called “dark room” and “cocoon” therapies., Journal of Pediatric Neuropsychology, October 2025, American Psychological Association (APA),
DOI: 10.1037/jpn0000018.
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