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McPherson JI, Marsh AC, Cunningham A, Leddy JJ, Corrado C, Cheema ZD, Nazir MSZ, Nowak AS, Farooq O, Willer BS, Haider MN. An Exploratory Analysis of Physical Examination Subtypes in Pediatric Athletes With Concussion. Clin J Sport Med 2024:00042752-990000000-00173. [PMID: 38329287 DOI: 10.1097/jsm.0000000000001207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pediatric athletes with concussion present with a variety of impairments on clinical assessment and require individualized treatment. The Buffalo Concussion Physical Examination is a brief, pertinent clinical assessment for individuals with concussion. The purpose of this study was to identify physical examination subtypes in pediatric athletes with concussion within 2 weeks of injury that are relevant to diagnosis and treatment. DESIGN Secondary analysis of a published cohort study and clinician consensus. SETTING Three university-affiliated sports medicine centers. PARTICIPANTS Two hundred seventy children (14.9 ± 1.9 years). INDEPENDENT VARIABLES Orthostatic intolerance, horizontal and vertical saccades, smooth pursuits, vestibulo-ocular reflex, near-point convergence, complex tandem gait, neck range of motion, neck tenderness, and neck spasm. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Correlations between independent variables were calculated, and network graphs were made. k-means and hierarchical clustering were used to identify clusters of impairments. Optimal number of clusters was assessed. Results were reviewed by experienced clinicians and consensus was reached on proposed subtypes. RESULTS Physical examination clusters overlapped with each other, and no optimal number of clusters was identified. Clinician consensus suggested 3 possible subtypes: (1) visio-vestibular (horizontal and vertical saccades, smooth pursuits, and vestibulo-ocular reflex), (2) cervicogenic (neck range of motion and spasm), and (3) autonomic/balance (orthostatic intolerance and complex tandem gait). CONCLUSIONS Although we identified 3 physical examination subtypes, it seemed that physical examination findings alone are not enough to define subtypes that are both statistically supported and clinically relevant, likely because they do not include symptoms, assessment of mood or cognitive problems, or graded exertion testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob I McPherson
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Professions, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | | | - Adam Cunningham
- University Concussion Management Clinic and Research Center, UBMD Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Buffalo, New York
| | - John J Leddy
- University Concussion Management Clinic and Research Center, UBMD Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Buffalo, New York
- Department of Orthopaedics, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | - Cathlyn Corrado
- University Concussion Management Clinic and Research Center, UBMD Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Buffalo, New York
| | - Zaheerud D Cheema
- Department of Neurology, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | - Muhammad S Z Nazir
- University Concussion Management Clinic and Research Center, UBMD Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Buffalo, New York
| | - Andrew S Nowak
- University Concussion Management Clinic and Research Center, UBMD Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Buffalo, New York
- Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Mt. Pleasant, Michigan; and
| | - Osman Farooq
- Department of Neurology, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | - Barry S Willer
- University Concussion Management Clinic and Research Center, UBMD Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Buffalo, New York
- Department of Psychiatry, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | - Mohammad N Haider
- University Concussion Management Clinic and Research Center, UBMD Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Buffalo, New York
- Department of Orthopaedics, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
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Corrado C, Willer BS, McPherson JI, Storey EP, Sisto SA, Master CL, Wiebe DJ, Grady MF, Mannix RC, Meehan WP, Leddy JJ, Haider MN. Adolescents With More Oculomotor and Vestibular Signs of Sport-Related Concussion Benefit from Aerobic Exercise: An Exploratory Analysis. J Neurotrauma 2023; 40:1718-1729. [PMID: 36884297 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2022.0225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract Early targeted heart rate (HR) aerobic exercise has been shown to reduce the duration of recovery from sport-related concussion (SRC) as well as the incidence of persistent post-concussive symptoms (PPCS). It is not known, however, if more severe oculomotor and vestibular presentations of SRC benefit from a prescription of aerobic exercise. The current study is an exploratory analysis of two published randomized controlled trials that compared aerobic exercise within 10 days of injury with a placebo-like stretching intervention. Combining the two studies yielded a larger sample size to stratify severity of concussion based on the number of abnormal physical examination signs present at the initial office evaluation, which were confirmed with self-reported symptoms and recovery outcomes. The most discriminant cut-off was between those who had ≤3 oculomotor and vestibular signs and those who had >3 signs. Aerobic exercise (hazard ratio = 0.621 [0.412, 0.936], p = 0.023) reduced recovery times even when controlling for site (hazard ratio = 0.461 [0.303, 0.701], p < 0.001), severity (hazard ratio = 0.528 [0.325, 0.858], p = 0.010) and the interaction term of intervention and severity (hazard ratio = 0.972 [0.495, 1.909], p = 0.935). Adolescents who presented with >3 signs and were assigned to the placebo-like stretching group had a PPCS incidence of 38%, which was the highest of all subgroups (aerobic exercise and ≤3 findings: 8%; stretching and ≤3 findings: 11%; aerobic exercise and >3 findings: 21%). This exploratory study provides pilot evidence that prescribed sub-symptom threshold aerobic exercise treatment early after SRC may be effective for adolescents with more oculomotor and vestibular physical examination signs and should be validated in future adequately powered trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathlyn Corrado
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Barry S Willer
- Department of Psychiatry, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Jacob I McPherson
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Eileen P Storey
- Christiana Care, Medicine-Pediatrics Residency Program, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Sue Ann Sisto
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Christina L Master
- Sports Medicine and Performance Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Douglas J Wiebe
- University of Michigan Injury Prevention Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Mathew F Grady
- Sports Medicine and Performance Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rebekah C Mannix
- Brain Injury Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - William P Meehan
- Brain Injury Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - John J Leddy
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Mohammad N Haider
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
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Cordingley DM, Cornish SM. Efficacy of aerobic exercise following concussion: a narrative review. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2023; 48:5-16. [PMID: 36423352 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2022-0139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury which results in symptoms within the physical, cognitive, emotional, and sleep domains. Historically, guidelines established by expert opinion have recommended rest during the initial stages of recovery following a concussion until symptom resolution. However, recent recommendations have shifted to advise an initial period of 24-48 h of rest immediately following concussion with the gradual introduction of light-to-moderate intensity aerobic exercise thereafter. Given the relatively recent transition in recommendations, the aim of this review is to provide an overview of the current literature on the efficacy of aerobic exercise following concussion. The current literature is limited to studies assessing the impact of standardized aerobic exercise following concussion. Upon review, literature suggests participating in aerobic exercise below the point of symptom exacerbation is safe in both the acute and chronic post-concussion symptom stages of recovery and does not delay time to medical clearance. Future large-scale randomized controlled trials assessing the impact of aerobic exercise and differences between males and females would help support the current evidence suggesting aerobic exercise could improve time to recovery following concussion and identify any sex differences in response. As well, future studies with the purpose of identifying optimal aerobic exercise volume and intensity in the treatment of concussion could improve the specificity of the current guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dean M Cordingley
- Pan Am Clinic Foundation, Winnipeg, MB R3M 3E4 Canada
- Applied Health Sciences, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Stephen M Cornish
- Applied Health Sciences, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
- Centre for Aging, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
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A Systematic Review of Treatments of Post-Concussion Symptoms. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11206224. [PMID: 36294545 PMCID: PMC9604759 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11206224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 10−20% of patients who have sustained a mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) show persistent post-concussion symptoms (PCS). This review aims to summarize the level of evidence concerning interventions for PCS. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review regarding interventions for PCS post-mTBI until August 2021 using the Medline, Cochrane, and Embase databases. Inclusion criteria were the following: (1) intervention focusing on PCS after mTBI, (2) presence of a control group, and (3) adult patients (≥18 y.o). Quality assessment was determined using the Incog recommendation level, and the risk of bias was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. We first selected 104 full-text articles. Finally, 55 studies were retained, including 35 that obtained the highest level of evidence. The risk of bias was high in 22 out of 55 studies. Cognitive training, psycho-education, cognitive behavioral therapy, and graded return to physical activity demonstrated some effectiveness on persistent PCS. However, there is limited evidence of the beneficial effect of Methylphenidate. Oculomotor rehabilitation, light therapy, and headache management using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation seem effective regarding somatic complaints and sleep disorders. The preventive effect of early (<3 months) interventions remains up for debate. Despite its limitations, the results of the present review should encourage clinicians to propose a tailored treatment to patients according to the type and severity of PCS and could encourage further research with larger groups.
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Miutz LN, Burma JS, Lapointe AP, Newel KT, Emery CA, Smirl JD. Physical Activity Following Sport-Related Concussion in Adolescents: A Systematic Review. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2022; 132:1250-1266. [PMID: 35323056 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00691.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the evidence related to how physical activity (PA) affects recovery following a sport-related concussion (SRC) in adolescents. DESIGN Systematic review Data Source: PUBMED, MEDLINE, and SPORTDiscus Eligibility criteria for selecting study:(1) original research article (e.g., randomized controlled trials (RCT), quasi-experimental designs, cohort, case-control studies), (2) 66% or greater of the sample has to have a SRC diagnosed by a clinician, (4) human research, (5) evaluate the effect of a SRC on PA in adolescents only (<18 years). Participants were seen within 1-2 weeks post-SRC for acute studies and 4 weeks post-SRC for studies focused on prolonged recoveries. RESULTS Twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria (i.e., 8 regarding PA (PA-daily aerobic activity including light-moderate intensities), 8 evaluating active rehabilitation/exercise programs (20 minutes of daily aerobic exercise below symptom threshold), 6 examining a single bout of exertion). The methodological quality of the literature was assessed using the Downs and Black risk of bias (ROB) checklist. The ROB scores ranged from 7-24, with only two RCTs included. Studies demonstrated single bouts of exertion testing were safe and feasible. Daily PA or active rehabilitation/exercise programs led to a reduction in symptoms present and a decrease in number of days to medical clearance. CONCLUSION Following a brief period of rest (24-48 hours), individuals can gradually and safely return to PA below their physical symptom exacerbation thresholds. Further research is warranted to delineate how to optimize the timing, intensity, duration, and modality of PA impacts symptom resolution and physiological recovery following SRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren N Miutz
- Cerebrovascular Concussion Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Integrated Concussion Research Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Joel S Burma
- Cerebrovascular Concussion Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Integrated Concussion Research Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Andrew P Lapointe
- Integrated Concussion Research Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kailey T Newel
- Faculty of Health and Exercise Science, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Carolyn A Emery
- Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Integrated Concussion Research Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jonathan David Smirl
- Cerebrovascular Concussion Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Integrated Concussion Research Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Leddy JJ, Haider MN, Noble JM, Rieger B, Flanagan S, McPherson JI, Shubin-Stein K, Saleem GT, Corsaro L, Willer B. Clinical Assessment of Concussion and Persistent Post-Concussive Symptoms for Neurologists. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2021; 21:70. [PMID: 34817724 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-021-01159-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Concussion produces a variety of signs and symptoms. Most patients recover within 2-4 weeks, but a significant minority experiences persistent post-concussive symptoms (PPCS), some of which may be from associated cervical or persistent neurologic sub-system (e.g., vestibular) dysfunction. This review provides evidence-based information for a pertinent history and physical examination of patients with concussion. RECENT FINDINGS The differential diagnosis of PPCS is based on the mechanism of injury, a thorough medical history and concussion-pertinent neurological and cervical physical examinations. The concussion physical examination focuses on elements of autonomic function, oculomotor and vestibular function, and the cervical spine. Abnormalities identified on physical examination can inform specific forms of rehabilitation to help speed recovery. Emerging data show that there are specific symptom generators after concussion that can be identified by a thorough history, a pertinent physical examination, and adjunct tests when indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- John J Leddy
- UBMD, Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, 160 Farber Hall, Buffalo, NY, 14214, USA.
| | - Mohammad Nadir Haider
- UBMD, Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, 160 Farber Hall, Buffalo, NY, 14214, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, 160 Farber Hall, Buffalo, NY, 14214, USA
| | - James M Noble
- Department of Neurology, Taub Institute for Research On Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, and G.H. Sergievsky Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brian Rieger
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Steven Flanagan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Rusk Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jacob I McPherson
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Professions, State University of New York at Buffalo, 160 Farber Hall, Buffalo, NY, 14214, USA
| | | | - Ghazala T Saleem
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Professions, State University of New York at Buffalo, 160 Farber Hall, Buffalo, NY, 14214, USA
| | - Louis Corsaro
- Northern Westchester and Southern Putnam County School Districts, New York, NY, USA
| | - Barry Willer
- Department of Psychiatry, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, 160 Farber Hall, Buffalo, NY, 14214, USA
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Fraser CL, Mobbs R. Visual effects of concussion: A review. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2021; 50:104-109. [PMID: 34418260 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.13987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
A concussion occurs when a direct or indirect force is transmitted to the brain, causing a change in brain function. Given that approximately half the brain circuits are involved in vision and the control of eye movements, a concussion frequently results in visual symptoms. Ophthalmic abnormalities are helpful in the assessment of acute concussion, identified by rapid automized naming tasks and eye movement assessments. In particular, convergence, eye-tracking and the vestibular-ocular motor screening tool may be used. For patients suffering from post-concussion syndrome more than 3 months from the original injury, abnormalities may be found in convergence, accommodation and smooth pursuit. Orthoptic exercises are useful rehabilitation tools to allow patients to return to school, work and recreation. This article provides a brief overview of concussion as it relates to vision and ophthalmic practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare L Fraser
- Save Sight Institute, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Macquarie University Hospital, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rowena Mobbs
- Department of Neurology, Macquarie University Hospital, New South Wales, Australia
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