Multi-Disciplinary Management of Athletes with Post-Concussion Syndrome: An Evolving Pathophysiological Approach

Temporal expression of brainstem neurotrophic proteins following mild traumatic brain injury

BDNF, a neurotrophic factor, and its receptors have been implicated in the pathophysiology of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). The brainstem houses many vital functions, that are also associated with signs and symptoms of mTBI, but has been understudied in mTBI animal models. We determined the extent to which neurotrophic protein and associated receptor expression is affected within the brainstem of adult rats following mTBI. Their behavioral function was assessed and temporal expression of the 'negative' regulators of neuronal function (p75, t-TrkB, and pro-BDNF) and 'positive' neuroprotective (FL-TrkB and m-BDNF) protein isoforms were determined via western blot and immunohistochemistry at 1, 3, 7, and 14 post-injury days (PID) following mTBI or sham (control) procedure. Within the brainstem, p75 expression increased at PID 1 vs. sham animals. t-TrkB and pro-BDNF expression increased at PID 7 and 14. The 'positive' protein isoforms of FL-TrkB and m-BDNF expression were increased only at PID 7. The ratio of t-TrkB:FL-TrkB (negative:positive) was substantial across groups and time points, suggesting a negative impact of neurotrophic signaling on neuronal function. Additional NeuN experiments revealed cell death occurring within a subset of neurons within the medulla. While behavioral measures improved by PID 7-14, negative neurotrophic biochemical responses persisted. Despite the assertion that mTBI produces "mild" injury, evidence of cell death was observed in the medulla. Ratios of TrkB and BDNF isoforms with conflicting functions suggest that future work should specifically measure each subtype since they induce opposing downstream effects on neuronal function.

Multidisciplinary care for patients with persistent symptoms following concussion: a systematic review

PURPOSE

To systematically characterize and assess the effectiveness of multidisciplinary care for patients with persistent post-concussion symptoms (PPCS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Only studies describing multidisciplinary treatment, defined as intervention provided by no less than 2 healthcare disciplines, each with independent scopes of practice, for patients with PPCS were considered.

RESULTS

A total of 8 of the 1357 studies identified were included. The studies were comprised of heterogenous patient populations, care delivery systems, healthcare providers, treatment approaches, and outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest multidisciplinary care, using a needs-based approach with individual- or group-based interventions, may be more beneficial than usual care to; 1) immediately reduce concussion-related symptom complaints and improve mood and quality of life in adolescents following sports-related concussion (SRC) and, 2) may produce immediate and lasting improvements in symptom complaints of young, primarily female, adults following a non-SRC. Future studies should clearly describe the decision-making processes used to deliver care through a needs-based approach and prioritize the inclusion of objective, performance-based measures to assess outcomes.

Cognitive, Sleep-Arousal, Physical, and Affective Domain Scores on the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale: Added Utility in Detecting Symptom Elevations among Student-Athletes with a Remote History of Concussion

OBJECTIVE

The evaluation of self-reported symptoms is a standard component of concussion assessment and management. Clinicians typically evaluate a total symptom severity score rather than scores corresponding to specific symptom domains (i.e., cognitive, sleep-arousal, physical, and affective symptoms). This study examined (i) whether elevations in specific symptom domains would be missed when interpreting only the total symptom severity score and (ii) if a single symptom domain elevation was more common than having elevated symptoms across multiple domains.

METHOD

Adolescent student-athletes (N = 1,008) with concussion history (i.e., ≥6 months since last concussion) completed the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS). The PCSS total score and cognitive, sleep-arousal, physical, and affective domain scores were calculated. To determine if symptoms were elevated, scores were compared to normative data matched on gender and pre-existing conditions, with scores considered elevated if they were ≥84th percentile. The frequency of total and domain score elevations were calculated and stratified by gender and number of prior concussions (i.e., 1 or ≥2 prior concussions).

RESULTS

Overall, 26% of student-athletes had an elevated symptom domain score without being elevated on the total score. The most common symptom presentation was to have a single elevated symptom domain (21%), followed by two (11%), three (8%), or four elevated domains (6%).

CONCLUSIONS

Interpreting PCSS symptom domains may be beneficial in detecting student-athletes with elevated symptoms following a remote concussion. Roughly a quarter of student-athletes have domain-specific symptom elevations that would be missed by interpreting the total score alone.

The Sport Concussion Assessment Tool: A multidimensional symptom model for detecting elevated post-concussion symptoms

Objective: Investigate whether a four-factor model of post-concussion symptoms (i.e. cognitive, physical, affective, and sleep-arousal) aids in identifying student-athletes with persistent concerns not reflected by a total symptom score. Method: Collegiate student-athletes (N = 32,066) from the Concussion Assessment Research and Education consortium completed the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool, 3rd edition Symptom Evaluation at baseline and two post-injury follow-ups (i.e. beginning RTP and 6-month). Confirmatory factor analysis was used to compare a one- and four-factor model of post-concussion symptoms. Normative reference data were compared across stratifications (e.g. sex, prior concussions, and number of pre-existing conditions) using Mann-Whitney U tests, and elevation rates (i.e. ≥ 84th percentile) for subscales and the total score were recorded. Results: The four-factor model fit well before and after injury (CFIs > .95). Greater symptom severity on the subscale and total scores was associated with female sex (ps<.001, r range: .07 to .14) and more pre-existing conditions (ps<.001, η 2 range: .01 to .04), while having more prior concussions was only related to total symptom scores (ps<.001, η 2<.01). After a concussion, a sizeable portion of student-athletes (i.e., RTP = 11.8%; 6-month = 8.3%) had subscale elevations despite no total score elevation. Physical subscale elevations at RTP were the most common (i.e., 11.9%), driven by head and neck pain. Conclusion: After a sport-related concussion, a four-factor symptom model can be used to assess persistent symptoms in collegiate student-athletes. Identifying athletes with domain-specific elevations may help clinicians identify areas for further assessment and, in some cases, personalized rehabilitation plans.

Does Physiologic Post-Concussion Disorder Cause Persistent Post-Traumatic Headache?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

One system classifies patients with symptoms after concussion into physiologic, vestibulo-ocular, cervicogenic, and mood/cognition post-concussion disorders (PCD) based upon the preponderance of specific symptoms and physical impairments. This review discusses physiologic PCD and its potential relationship to the development of persistent post-traumatic headaches (PPTH).

RECENT FINDINGS

Headache is the most reported symptom after a concussion. Headaches in physiologic PCD are suspected to be due to abnormal cellular metabolism, subclinical neuroinflammation, and dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). These abnormalities have been linked to the development of migraine-like and neuralgia-related PPTH. Physiologic PCD is a potential cause of PPTH after a concussion. Future research should focus on how to prevent PPTH in patients with physiologic PCD.

Multidisciplinary interventions increase weekly working hours and quality of life in persons with post-concussion syndrome

OBJECTIVES

To improve labor market attachment, general health and quality of life in persons suffering from post-concussion syndrome. Labor market attachment often changes after mTBI, and especially in persons suffering from post-concussion syndrome, and constitutes a huge societal burden.

METHODS

Eighty-two adults with persistent post-concussion syndrome participated in this single-center and uncontrolled interventional efficacy open-label investigation. The primary endpoint was to increase weekly working hours. Outcome measures ranged from self-reported cognitive symptoms to objective performance testing. Multidisciplinary interventions were used to reduce symptoms of fatigue, stress, pain, oculomotor malfunction, and sensitivity to both sound and light.

RESULTS

Workhours improved from median 0 to 6 hours (p = 0.00002). Several significant improvements were observed in quality of life measured by the SF-36. General fatigue measured by the MFI-20 was reduced (p < 0.0001), and symptoms of depression were reduced (p < 0.0001). The COPM results were improved for task completion satisfaction and for ability to perform a task (p < 0.0001). Reading speed, and performances in the Groffman Visual Tracing Test and the King-Devick Test, all improved (p < 0.01). The intervention did not reduce perception of pain intensity (p = 0.11).

CONCLUSION

After the intervention, participants increased weekly workhours and improved in many aspects of life - including quality of life, performance in everyday activities, fatigue and depression. Perception of pain intensity was not improved.

Quality of Life Differences in Children and Adolescents With 0, 1 to 2, or 3+ Persistent Postconcussion Symptoms

CONTEXT

Persistent postconcussion symptoms (PPCSs) are associated with lower health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in children and adolescents. Despite commonly cited criteria for PPCSs involving 3 or more complaints, many individuals experience just 1 or 2 symptoms that may still negatively affect HRQoL.

OBJECTIVE

To determine differences in HRQoL between children and adolescents with 0, 1 to 2, or 3+ parent-reported persistent symptoms at 1 month postconcussion.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Community practice clinics.

PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS

Individuals aged 8 to 18 years presented for the initial visit within 3 days of a sport- or recreation-related concussion. One month later, parents or guardians reported persistent symptoms using the Rivermead Post Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire (RPQ). Individuals with complete symptom data were analyzed (n = 236/245, n = 97 females, age = 14.3 ± 2.1 years). Participants were grouped by the number of discrete RPQ symptoms reported as worse than preinjury (0, 1-2, or 3+).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Total summary and subscale scores on the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 23-item HRQoL inventory and 18-item Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (MDFS).

RESULTS

Kruskal-Wallis rank sum tests highlighted differences in PedsQL HRQoL and MDFS total scores across symptom groups (PedsQL HRQoL: χ22 = 85.53, P < .001; MDFS: χ22 = 93.15, P < .001). Dunn post hoc analyses indicated all 3 groups were statistically significantly different from each other (P < .001). The median (interquartile range) values for the Peds QL Inventory HRQoL totals were 93.5 (84.2-98.8) for those with 0 symptoms; 84.8 (73.9-92.4) for those with 1 to 2 symptoms; and 70.7 (58.7-78.0) for those with 3+ symptoms. The median (interquartile range) values for the MDFS totals were 92.4 (76.4-98.6) for those with 0 symptoms; 78.5 (65.6-88.9) for those with 1 to 2 symptoms; and 54.2 (46.2-65.3) for those with 3+ symptoms. Similar group differences were observed for each PedsQL HRQoL and MDFS subscale score.

CONCLUSIONS

Children and adolescents whose parents reported 1 to 2 PPCSs had lower HRQoL and more fatigue than those with 0 symptoms. Across all 3 groups, those with 3+ persistent symptoms had the lowest HRQoL and most fatigue. These findings indicate the continued need for intervention in this age group to prevent and address PPCSs.

The Toronto Concussion Study: a prospective investigation of characteristics in a cohort of adults from the general population seeking care following acute concussion, 2016-2020

Purpose

There is limited research regarding the characteristics of those from the general population who seek care following acute concussion.

Methods

To address this gap, a large cohort of 473 adults diagnosed with an acute concussion (female participants = 287; male participants = 186) was followed using objective measures prospectively over 16 weeks beginning at a mean of 5.1 days post-injury.

Results

Falls were the most common mechanism of injury (MOI) (n = 137, 29.0%), followed by sports-related recreation (n = 119, 25.2%). Male participants were more likely to be injured playing recreational sports or in a violence-related incident; female participants were more likely to be injured by falling. Post-traumatic amnesia (PTA) was reported by 80 participants (16.9 %), and loss of consciousness (LOC) was reported by 110 (23.3%). In total, 54 participants (11.4%) reported both PTA and LOC. Male participants had significantly higher rates of PTA and LOC after their injury compared to their female counterparts. Higher initial symptom burden was associated with a longer duration of recovery for both male and female participants. Female participants had more symptoms and higher severity of symptoms at presentation compared to male participants. Female participants were identified to have a longer recovery duration, with a mean survival time of 6.50 weeks compared to 5.45 weeks in male participants (p < 0.0001). A relatively high proportion of female and male participants in this study reported premorbid diagnoses of depression and anxiety compared to general population characteristics.

Conclusion

Although premorbid diagnoses of depression and/or anxiety were associated with higher symptom burden at the initial visit, the duration of symptoms was not directly associated with a pre-injury history of psychological/psychiatric disturbance. This cohort of adults, from the general population, seeking care for their acute concussion attained clinical and functional recovery over a period of 4-12 weeks.

Validity and Reliability of Methods to Assess Movement Deficiencies Following Concussion: A COSMIN Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

There is an increased risk of subsequent concussion and musculoskeletal injury upon return to play following a sports-related concussion. Whilst there are numerous assessments available for clinicians for diagnosis and during return to play following concussion, many may lack the ability to detect these subclinical changes in function. Currently, there is no consensus or collated sources on the reliability, validity and feasibility of these assessments, which makes it difficult for clinicians and practitioners to select the most appropriate assessment for their needs.

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review aims to (1) consolidate the reliability and validity of motor function assessments across the time course of concussion management and (2) summarise their feasibility for clinicians and other end-users.

METHODS

A systematic search of five databases was conducted. Eligible studies were: (1) original research; (2) full-text English language; (3) peer-reviewed with level III evidence or higher; (4) assessed the validity of lower-limb motor assessments used to diagnose or determine readiness for athletes or military personnel who had sustained a concussion or; (5) assessed the test-retest reliability of lower-limb motor assessments used for concussion management amongst healthy athletes. Acceptable lower-limb motor assessments were dichotomised into instrumented and non-instrumented and then classified into static (stable around a fixed point), dynamic (movement around a fixed point), gait, and other categories. Each study was assessed using the COSMIN checklist to establish methodological and measurement quality.

RESULTS

A total of 1270 records were identified, with 637 duplicates removed. Titles and abstracts of 633 records were analysed, with 158 being retained for full-text review. A total of 67 records were included in this review; 37 records assessed reliability, and 35 records assessed the validity of lower-limb motor assessments. There were 42 different assessments included in the review, with 43% being non-instrumented, subjective assessments. Consistent evidence supported the use of instrumented assessments over non-instrumented, with gait-based assessments demonstrating sufficient reliability and validity compared to static or dynamic assessments.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that instrumented, gait-based assessments should be prioritised over static or dynamic balance assessments. The use of laboratory equipment (i.e. 3D motion capture, pressure sensitive walkways) on average exhibited sufficient reliability and validity, yet demonstrate poor feasibility. Further high-quality studies evaluating the reliability and validity of more readily available devices (i.e. inertial measurement units) are needed to fill the gap in current concussion management protocols. Practitioners can use this resource to understand the accuracy and precision of the assessments they have at their disposal to make informed decisions regarding the management of concussion.

TRAIL REGISTRATION

This systematic review was registered on PROSPERO (reg no. CRD42021256298).

Adults are not older adolescents: comparing physical therapy findings among adolescents, young adults and older adults with persistent post-concussive symptoms

OBJECTIVE

Individuals with persistent post-concussive symptoms (PPCS) may present with a myriad of physical symptoms. There is limited research available comparing the presence of examination findings among individuals with PPCS from different age groups.

METHODS

Retrospective case-control chart review of 481 patients with PPCS and 271 non-trauma controls. Physical assessments were categorized as ocular, cervical, and vestibular/balance. Differences in presentation were compared between PPCS and controls as well as between individuals with PPCS in three age groups: adolescents, young adults, and older adults.

RESULTS

All three PPCS groups had more abnormal oculomotor findings than their age-matched counterparts. When comparing PPCS patients from different age groups, no differences were seen in prevalence of abnormal smooth pursuits or saccades; however, adolescents with PPCS had more abnormal cervical findings and a lower prevalence of abnormal NPC, vestibular and balance findings.

CONCLUSION

Patients with PPCS presented with a different constellation of clinical findings based on their age. Adolescents were more likely to demonstrate evidence of cervical injury compared to younger and older adults, and adults were more likely to present with vestibular findings and impaired NPC. Adults with PPCS were more likely to present with abnormal oculomotor findings compared to adults with non-traumatic causes of dizziness.

An Investigation of Physiological System Impairments in Individuals 4 Weeks to 6 Months Following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

OBJECTIVE

The Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test (BCTT) was developed to identify potential physiological system impairment (PSI) underlying persistent symptoms post-mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). This study evaluates PSI in individuals 4 weeks to 6 months post-mTBI using the BCTT "failure" criteria, and additional exploratory measures of test duration and heart rate (HR) response.

SETTING

Tertiary hospital and university.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants included 73 individuals 4 weeks to 6 months post-mTBI and a comparison group of 39 healthy controls (HCs). The mTBI group was further subgrouped at screening into those considering themselves asymptomatic (Asymp mTBI) ( n = 35) or symptomatic (Symp mTBI) ( n = 36).

DESIGN

Observational cohort study.

MAIN MEASURES

BCTT; failure rate (%), test duration (minutes), HR responses.

RESULTS

: Thirty percent of the mTBI group (including 50% of the Symp and 9% of the Asymp subgroups) failed the BCTT. BCTT duration and associated overall HR change was significantly lower in the mTBI group and Symp subgroup compared with HCs. Compared with HCs maximal HR percentage was higher for the first 4 minutes of the test in the mTBI group, and for the first 2 minutes of the test for the Symp subgroup.

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals post-mTBI demonstrated PSI impairment subacutely. In some individuals this was despite an initially reported absence of symptoms. The study also showed some preliminary evidence that BCTT duration and HR responses may be additionally informative post-mTBI.

Sports-related concussion: assessing the comprehension, collaboration, and contribution of chiropractors

Over the last 2 decades, sports-related concussion (SRC) awareness and management have evolved from an emphasis on complete cognitive and physical rest to evidence-based protocols and interventions. Chiropractors are primary care providers with exposure to athletes and teams in collision sports and, in addition, manage patients with concussion-like symptoms including neck pain, dizziness, and headache. With SRC frequently occurring in the absence of a medical practitioner, the role of allied health practitioners like chiropractors should be emphasised when it comes to the recognition, assessment, and management of SRC. This commentary discusses the potential contribution of chiropractors in SRC and the specific role their expertise in the cervical spine may play in symptom evaluation and management. A PubMed and Google scholar review of the chiropractic SRC literature suggests that the chiropractic profession appears under-represented in concussion research in athletic populations compared to other medical and allied health fields. This includes an absence of chiropractic clinicians with a focus on SRC participating in the Concussion in Sport Group (CISG) and the International Consensus Conferences on Concussion. Furthermore, with evolving evidence suggesting the importance of cervicogenic manifestations in SRC, there is an opportunity for chiropractors to participate in SRC diagnosis and management more fully and contribute scientifically to an area of specialised knowledge and training. With a dearth of chiropractic orientated SRC science, clinical SRC expertise, and clinical chiropractic representation in the CISG; it is incumbent on chiropractic clinicians and scientists to take up this opportunity through meaningful contribution and involvement in the SRC field.

Sex-related differences in sternocleidomastoid muscle morphology in healthy young adults: A cross-sectional magnetic resonance imaging measurement study

BACKGROUND

Changes in sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and volume may contribute to neck-related concussion symptoms and whiplash-associated disorders. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data on healthy SCM morphology can provide information that may lead to targeted treatment protocols.

OBJECTIVES

To examine sex-related differences in MRI-based SCM CSA, SCM volume and neck area in healthy young adults, to analyze associations between measurements and participant variables and to assess inter-rater reliability for measurement quantification.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

13 males and 14 females underwent MRI scans. Slices obtained from C3-C7 were analyzed by three raters. SCM CSA at C4, total SCM volume from C3-C7 and neck area at C4 were quantified. Measurements were calculated as absolute and normalized values by body mass. Multivariable regression was used to analyze associations between normalized measurement values and participant variables. Inter-rater reliability was determined using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC).

RESULTS

Females had significantly lower normalized overall average SCM CSA (mean difference 1.3 mm²/kg (95% CI 0.4-2.2, p = 0.006) and total SCM volume (mean difference 140.8 mm3/kg (95% CI 66.1-215.5, p < 0.001) than males. Regression models indicated female sex was associated with lower normalized overall average SCM CSA (p = 0.004) and total SCM volume (p < 0.001). Inter-rater reliability was excellent for SCM CSA (ICC_3,3 = 0.909), SCM volume (ICC_3,3 = 0.910) and neck area (ICC_3,3 = 0.995).

CONCLUSIONS

These results enhance our understanding of sex-related differences in SCM morphology and will inform future research and clinical practice related to cervical muscle injury.

Interdisciplinary Rehabilitation for Concussion Recovery (i-RECOveR): protocol of an investigator-blinded, randomised, case series with multiple baseline design to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a 12-week treatment for persistent post-concussion symptoms

BACKGROUND

Up to 25% of concussed individuals experience persistent post-concussion symptoms (PPCSs) which may interfere with the return to pre-injury activities and cause significant stress. Given that multiple etiological factors are thought to contribute to PPCSs, an interdisciplinary approach is recommended. This pilot study aims to primarily investigate the feasibility of a novel interdisciplinary treatment for PPCSs. Given this intervention is novel, uncertainty exists in terms of potential recruitment and retention rates, adverse events, and treatment adherence and fidelity. These factors will be explored to inform the feasibility of a phase-2 randomised controlled trial. Preliminary efficacy of this intervention will also be explored.

METHODS

Fifteen individuals with mild traumatic brain injury and PPCSs will receive up to 12 weeks of interdisciplinary treatments including psychology, physiotherapy, and medical interventions. Primary feasibility outcomes including data on recruitment and retention rates and treatment adherence will be explored descriptively. The cognitive therapy rating scale will be used to assess treatment fidelity. A single-case series with multiple baseline design will be used to explore preliminary efficacy. Participants will be randomly assigned to baseline phases of 2, 4, or 6 weeks. Regarding patient-centred secondary outcomes, the Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire will be assessed three times a week during baseline and treatment phases. Secondary outcomes also include measures of mood, sleep and fatigue, physical functioning, return to activity, and health-related quality of life. Patient-centred outcomes will be assessed at baseline, pretreatment, post-treatment, and one- and three-month follow-up. Thematic analysis of participant experiences will be explored through qualitative interviews.

DISCUSSION

Results from this trial will inform the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of this interdisciplinary concussion intervention and whether proceeding to a future definitive phase-2 randomised controlled trial is worthwhile. Understanding the end-user perspective of the treatment will also enable modifications to the treatment protocol for future trials to best suit the needs of individuals with PPCSs after mTBI. Outcomes from this trial can be directly translated into community rehabilitation programmes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ANZCTR, ACTRN12620001111965. Registered 27 October 2020, https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=379118.

Occipital Neuralgia May Be a Possible Limitation on the Utility of the Buffalo Treadmill Test for Concussion Assessments: 2 Case Reports

ABSTRACT

Two female athletes presented to clinic following a head injury and exhibited signs of concussion. Both athletes experienced exacerbation of symptoms secondary to dysautonomia related to concussion injury on the Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test (BCTT). On repeat evaluation, both athletes exhibited neck pain with symptoms immediately provoked by palpation of the occipital nerves. After a third occipital nerve block, both athletes had complete resolution of symptoms and subsequently tolerated BCTT to the maximum rate of perceived exertion with no provoked symptoms. The athletes were cleared for return to sport without issue. These cases indicate a potential limitation in the utility of the BCTT for determining the etiology and management of concussion and postconcussion syndrome.

Pediatric Sports-Related Concussion: An Approach to Care

Sports-related concussion (SRC) is a common sports injury in children and adolescents. With the vast amount of youth sports participation, an increase in awareness of concussion and evidence that the injury can lead to consequences for school, sports and overall quality of life, it has become increasingly important to properly diagnose and manage concussion. SRC in the student athlete is a unique and complex injury, and it is important to highlight the differences in the management of child and adolescent concussion compared with adults. This review focuses on the importance of developing a multimodal systematic approach to diagnosing and managing pediatric sports-related concussion, from the sidelines through recovery.

Neuro-Visual and Vestibular Manifestations of Concussion and Mild TBI

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Mild traumatic brain injury, or concussion, is a major cause of disability. Vestibular and visual dysfunction following concussion is common and can negatively affect patients' well-being and prolong recovery. Etiologies of visual and vestibular symptoms are numerous, including ocular, neuro-ophthalmic, otologic, and neuro-vestibular conditions. Some etiologies are benign and may be treatable, while others are potentially vision or life-threatening, making a focused history and examination essential. This review offers an approach to the evaluation and treatment of the most common neuro-visual and vestibular impairments that may result from concussion.

RECENT FINDINGS

Treatment of concussion including exercise, computerized programs, transcranial magnetic stimulation, gene therapy, stem cell therapy, and nanoparticles has shown promise. Many novel therapies are in the pipework for visual and vestibular recovery after concussion; however, the treatment mainstay remains therapy and evaluation for co-existing diseases.

Specialty-Specific Diagnoses in Pediatric Patients With Postconcussion Syndrome: Experience From a Multidisciplinary Concussion Clinic

OBJECTIVE

To describe the collaborative findings across a broad array of subspecialties in children and adolescents with postconcussion syndrome (PCS) in a pediatric multidisciplinary concussion clinic (MDCC) setting.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis.

SETTING

Multidisciplinary concussion clinic at a pediatric tertiary-level hospital.

PATIENTS

Fifty-seven patients seen in MDCC for evaluation and management of PCS between June 2014 and January 2016.

INTERVENTIONS

Clinical evaluation by neurology, sports medicine, otolaryngology, optometry, ophthalmology, physical therapy, and psychology.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Specialty-specific clinical findings and specific, treatable diagnoses relevant to PCS symptoms.

RESULTS

A wide variety of treatable, specialty-specific diagnoses were identified as potential contributing factors to patients' postconcussion symptoms. The most common treatable diagnoses included binocular vision dysfunction (76%), anxiety, (57.7%), depression (44.2%), new or change in refractive error (21.7%), myofascial pain syndrome (19.2%), and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (17.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients seen in a MDCC setting receive a high number of treatable diagnoses that are potentially related to patients' PCS symptoms. The MDCC approach may (1) increase access to interventions for PCS-related impairments, such as visual rehabilitation, physical therapy, and psychological counseling; (2) provide patients with coordinated medical care across specialties; and (3) hasten recovery from PCS.

The effect of transcranial direct current stimulation on cognitive performance in youth with persistent cognitive symptoms following concussion: a controlled pilot study

OBJECTIVE

Explore the feasibility, tolerability, and early efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) as a therapeutic intervention for youth with cognitive persistent post-concussion symptoms (PPCS).

HYPOTHESIS

tDCS improves performance on a dual task working memory (WM) paradigm in youth with cognitive PPCS.

PARTICIPANTS

Twelve youth experiencing cognitive PPCS.

DESIGN

A quasi-randomized pilot trial was used to explore the tolerability of, and performance differences on, a dual N-Back WM task paired with active or sham tDCS over 3 sessions.

MEASURES

Accuracy and reaction time on WM task and self-report of tDCS tolerability.

RESULTS

Trends toward increases in accuracy from Day 1 to 3 seen in both groups. Active tDCS group performed better than sham on Day 2 in N-Back level N2 (p = .019), and marginally better than the sham group on Day 3 in level N3 (p = .26). Participants reported tDCS as tolerable; compared to the active tDCS group, the sham group reported more "considerable" (p = .078) and "strong" symptoms (p = .097).

CONCLUSION

tDCS is a promising tool for enhancing WM performance and is a feasible and tolerable adjunct to behavioral interventions in youth with cognitive PPCS. A clinical trial to demonstrate efficacy is warranted.

Cervical musculoskeletal and sensorimotor impairments 4 weeks to 6 months following mild traumatic brain injury: An observational cohort study

BACKGROUND

Clinically relevant scores of neck disability have been observed in adults post mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), even in those who initially report to be recovered. Potentially cervical musculoskeletal and/or cervical sensorimotor impairments may underlie these persistent symptoms post mTBI.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether cervical impairments exist beyond expected recovery times following concussion compared to healthy controls (HC).

STUDY DESIGN

Observational cohort study.

METHODS

Participants aged 18-60 years consisting of 39 HC, and 72 individuals, 4 weeks to 6 months post mTBI of which 35 considered themselves asymptomatic (Asymp), and 37 symptomatic (Symp). Cervical outcome measures included range and velocity of motion, flexor muscle endurance, presence of at least one dysfunctional cervical joint, joint position error -neutral and torsion, movement accuracy, smooth pursuit neck torsion test (SPNT) and balance.

RESULTS

Individuals in the Symp mTBI group demonstrated significantly reduced: flexion and rotation range, rotation velocity, flexor endurance and movement accuracy as well as increased postural sway and a higher percentage had positive cervical joint dysfunction (p < 0.01]. The mTBI group who considered themselves recovered (Asymp)demonstrated significantly lower rotation range, flexor endurance, and a higher percentage had positive cervical joint dysfunction and positive SPNT (p < 0.05) compared to HCs.

CONCLUSION

Individuals reporting symptoms post mTBI demonstrated cervical spine musculoskeletal and sensorimotor impairments beyond expected recovery times. Those not reporting symptoms had fewer but some cervical impairments. The need for a comprehensive neck assessment should be considered, perhaps even in those not reporting symptoms.

An Investigation of Sensorimotor Impairments in Individuals 4 weeks to 6 months following mild traumatic brain injury

OBJECTIVE

To identify whether adults 4 weeks to 6 months post mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) have sensorimotor impairments when compared to healthy controls. A secondary aim was to determine if impairments were evident irrespective of participant perceived absence of symptoms.

DESIGN

Observational cohort study SETTING: Tertiary University and Hospital PARTICIPANTS: Participants included 113 individuals aged 18 to 60 years consisting of 39 controls with no prior concussion history, and 74 individuals, 4 weeks to 6 months post mTBI of which 35 considered themselves asymptomatic (Asymp), and 37 symptomatic (Symp).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Assessments of oculomotor, vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) control, balance, single and dual task tandem walk (TTW-S, TTW-D) and vestibular positional testing.

RESULTS

Poorer balance and tandem walk performance, and a higher frequency of positive oculomotor, VOR and vestibular positional tests were evident in the mTBI group compared to controls. In particular ≥ 2 positive oculomotor findings were evident in 53.7% of the participants with mTBI compared to 10.8 % of controls. The mTBI group who considered themselves recovered (Asymp) demonstrated significantly increased TWT-D time, and a higher proportion 53% had ≥ 2 positive oculomotor tests compared to controls.

CONCLUSION

Persistent sensorimotor impairments, particularly evidenced by disturbed oculomotor function and deficits in dual task tandem walking were identified among adults 4 weeks to 6 months post mTBI. These disturbances were evident regardless of whether ongoing symptoms were reported. The findings support recommendations for routine clinical assessment of sensorimotor function post mTBI with implications for injury prevention.

Selected issues in sport-related concussion (SRC|mild traumatic brain injury) for the team physician: a consensus statement

Selected Issues in Sport-Related Concussion (SRC|Mild Traumatic Brain Injury) for the Team Physician: A Consensus Statement is title 22 in a series of annual consensus documents written for the practicing team physician. This document provides an overview of selected medical issues important to team physicians who are responsible for athletes with sports-related concussion (SRC). This statement was developed by the Team Physician Consensus Conference (TPCC), an annual project-based alliance of six major professional associations. The goal of this TPCC statement is to assist the team physician in providing optimal medical care for the athlete with SRC.

Machine Learning for Subtyping Concussion Using a Clustering Approach

Background: Concussion subtypes are typically organized into commonly affected symptom areas or a combination of affected systems, an approach that may be flawed by bias in conceptualization or the inherent limitations of interdisciplinary expertise.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine whether a bottom-up, unsupervised, machine learning approach, could more accurately support concussion subtyping.

Methods: Initial patient intake data as well as objective outcome measures including, the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS), Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), and Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing Tool (ImPACT) were retrospectively extracted from the Advance Concussion Clinic's database. A correlation matrix and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to reduce the dimensionality of the dataset. Sklearn's agglomerative clustering algorithm was then applied, and the optimal number of clusters within the patient database were generated. Between-group comparisons among the formed clusters were performed using a Mann-Whitney U test.

Results: Two hundred seventy-five patients within the clinics database were analyzed. Five distinct clusters emerged from the data when maximizing the Silhouette score (0.36) and minimizing the Davies-Bouldin score (0.83). Concussion subtypes derived demonstrated clinically distinct profiles, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) between all five clusters.

Conclusion: This machine learning approach enabled the identification and characterization of five distinct concussion subtypes, which were best understood according to levels of complexity, ranging from Extremely Complex to Minimally Complex. Understanding concussion in terms of Complexity with the utilization of artificial intelligence, could provide a more accurate concussion classification or subtype approach; one that better reflects the true heterogeneity and complex system disruptions associated with mild traumatic brain injury.

Condition-specific health-related quality of life amongst amateur athletes six months and one-year following sport-related concussion: A prospective, follow-up

OBJECTIVE

To prospectively investigate the condition-specific health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of athletes six months and one-year following sport-related concussion.

DESIGN

Prospective, longitudinal study.

SETTING

Clinical research centre at university school of public health.

PARTICIPANTS

Amateur athletes who were diagnosed with sport-related concussion within one-week after presenting to a hospital emergency department were recruited along with sex-, age-, and activity-matched, non-concussed, control athletes. Concussion and control participants were assessed six months and one-year following sport-related concussion and study enrolment, respectively.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Participants completed the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale and five condition-specific HRQoL patient-reported outcome measures - Headache Impact Test-6, Fatigue Severity Scale, Neck Disability Index, Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7, and Dizziness Handicap Inventory. We performed Frequentist and Bayesian mixed-design analyses of variance to compare the concussion group and control group at both assessments and quantify whether there was greater evidence in favour of the null hypothesis compared with the alternative hypothesis.

RESULTS

At six-month and one-year assessments, the concussion group (n = 47; male = 72%; mean (SD) age = 22.68 (5.07)) and the control group (n = 47; male = 72%; mean (SD) age = 23.81 (4.60)) reported similar clinical symptom severity scores and condition-specific HRQoL. The proportion of athletes in the concussion group with clinically-impaired scores was similar to the proportion of non-concussed athletes with clinically-impaired scores. At six-month and one-year assessments, there was moderate-to-very strong evidence that there was no difference between concussion and control participants' perceptions of the effects of headache, fatigue, neck pain, anxiety, and dizziness on HRQoL.

CONCLUSION

There was moderate-to-very strong evidence in favour of no difference between the concussion and control groups on symptom severity scores and condition-specific HRQoL patient-reported outcome measures at six-month and one-year assessments. These results suggest that condition-specific HRQoL returns to the levels of non-concussed individuals within six months following sport-related concussion.

Understanding Cognitive Communication Needs in Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury: Issues Identified at the 2020 International Cognitive-Communication Disorders Conference

Purpose In early 2020, the second International Cognitive-Communication Disorders Conference was held to provide an opportunity for researchers and clinician-scientists to discuss the most recent advances and pressing issues in the care of individuals with cognitive-communication disorders (CCDs). Presentations and discussions resulted in the identification of four areas in need of attention: (a) terminology, (b) training, (c) interdisciplinary teams, and (d) pediatrics. We will explore the four themes identified at ICCDC, specifically expanding on how terminology, training, and teams intersect in pediatric traumatic brain injury care. Additionally, we will provide two case studies to highlight the integration of these themes and suggest ways to advance clinical service provision across medical and educational settings for persons with CCDs through the lens of pediatrics. Conclusion While speech-language pathology has come a long way since the original discussion of CCD over 30 years ago, clinicians and researchers have ongoing opportunities to help advance the ways in which speech-language pathologists offer support to persons, specifically children, with CCDs and to continue to advance the profession.

Subtypes of Sport-Related Concussion: a Systematic Review and Meta-cluster Analysis

Objective

Current clinical guidelines provide a unitary approach to manage sport-related concussion (SRC), while heterogeneity in the presentation of symptoms suggests that subtypes of SRC may exist. We systematically reviewed the available evidence on SRC subtypes and associated clinical outcomes.

Data Sources

Ovid Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, and SPORTDiscus

Eligibility Criteria for Selecting Studies

Electronic databases were searched for studies: (i) identifying SRC symptom clusters using classification methodology; or (ii) associating symptom clusters to clinical outcome variables. A total of 6,146 unique studies were identified, of which 75 full texts were independently assessed by two authors for eligibility. A total of 22 articles were included for systematic review.

Data Extraction

Two independent authors performed data extraction and risk of bias analysis using the Cochrane Collaboration tool.

Data Synthesis

Six studies found evidence for existence of SRC symptom clusters. Combining the available literature through Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) provided evidence for the existence of a migraine cluster, a cognitive–emotional cluster, a sleep–emotional cluster, a neurological cluster, and an undefined feelings cluster. Nineteen studies found meaningful associations between SRC symptom clusters and clinical outcomes. Clusters mapping to the migraine cluster were most frequently reported in the literature and were most strongly related to aspects of clinical outcome.

Conclusions

The available literature provides evidence for the existence of at least five subtypes in SRC symptomatology, with clear relevance to clinical outcome. Systematically embedding the differentiation of SRC subtypes into prognosis, clinical management, and intervention strategies may optimize the recovery from SRC.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s40279-020-01321-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The Utility of Neuromotor Retraining to Augment Manual Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation in a Patient with Post-Concussion Syndrome: A Case Report

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Less than half of patients discharged from the emergency department post-concussion receive patient education or follow-up care, and 10-20% of individuals will develop symptoms that last longer than six months. Current research on interventions for post-concussion syndrome (PCS) shows inconsistent results, and recommendations for effective physical therapy treatment for patients with chronic PCS are lacking. The purpose of this case report is to highlight a successful, multi-system approach to physical therapy examination and treatment of a patient with chronic PCS.

CASE DESCRIPTION

This case describes a 21-year-old male who sustained a concussion 356 days prior to evaluation. He received no follow-up treatment and reported periods of worsening symptoms since the injury. Impairments in cervical range of motion and accessory mobility, vestibular and vestibulo-ocular function, and postural stability were identified. Both cognitive and emotional symptoms were also present. The patient attended eight, sixty-minute sessions over a five-week period in an outpatient setting. Comprehensive physical therapy interventions included manual therapy, vestibular rehabilitation, and neuromotor retraining aimed at restoring proper sensory integration and midline postural orientation.

OUTCOMES

Outcomes included cervical spine goniometric measurements and accessory mobility assessments. Objective measures of postural stability included the Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction in Balance (m-CTSIB) and the Fukuda Step Test. The Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire (RPQ) was used to subjectively assess symptom severity. At discharge, goniometric measurements returned to within normal limits except left cervical rotation active range of motion (ROM), and both the m-CTSIB and Fukuda Step Test were within normal ranges. The RPQ score reduced from 20 to 2 demonstrating symptom resolution in all items but "headache."

DISCUSSION

PCS can affect multiple systems, necessitating a comprehensive approach to examination and intervention. Manual therapy was used to restore cervical spine ROM, vestibular rehabilitation was utilized to improve gaze stability and visual motion sensitivity, and neuromotor retraining was implemented to improve postural stability and sensory integration. Physical therapists have the ability to treat multiple systems impacted with PCS, with the potential to reduce the longevity and severity of impairments for patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V.

Derivation of a Focused, Brief Concussion Physical Examination for Adolescents With Sport-Related Concussion

OBJECTIVE

To describe the derivation of a brief but pertinent physical examination (PE) for adolescents who have sustained sport-related concussion (SRC).

DESIGN

Prospective cohort.

SETTING

University concussion management clinic.

PARTICIPANTS

Acutely concussed (AC, n = 52, 15.5 ± 1.4 years, 4.4 ± 2 days since injury, 26.2 ± 38 days to recovery, 71% males) and healthy control (HC) adolescents (n = 30, 15.8 ± 1.4 years, 73% males).

INTERVENTION

Acutely concussed had a PE on visit 1 and were retested at visit 2 (13.6 ± 1 day after visit 1). Acutely concussed were further characterized as normal recovery (NR, n = 41, 15.5 ± 1.5 years, recovery time 13.0 ± 7 days) and delayed recovery (DR, n = 11, 15.5 ± 1.2 years, recovery time 75.4 ± 63 days).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Physical examination findings, including cervical, vestibular, and oculomotor systems.

RESULTS

Visit 1 abnormal PE signs were significantly greater in AC versus HC (2.79 ± 2.13 vs 0.07 ± 0.37, P < 0.0001) but not in NR versus DR (2.61 ± 2.2 vs 3.45 ± 1.8, P = 0.246). Visit 2 abnormal PE signs differentiated NR versus DR (0.17 ± 0.7 vs 2.45 ± 2.1, P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

A brief focused PE can help to diagnose SRC, establish recovery, and may have prognostic value.

Outpatient Management of Sport-Related Concussion, Return to Learn, Return to Play

Outpatient sports-related concussion (SRC) management continues to evolve as evidence emerges supporting a multidisciplinary approach to the clinical assessment of SRC. Early active rehabilitation has replaced strict cognitive and physical rest. With this paradigm shift in management, pragmatic approaches are highly sought by busy clinicians that provide direction to individualized treatment, which can potentially expedite symptom resolution. Treatment strategies that address domain-based symptom constellations continue to be developed by clinician researchers. Although the optimal timing and dose of these domain-specific therapies has yet to be determined, future directions of SRC treatment will answer these and other questions regarding SRC management.

Rehabilitation of Sport-Related Concussion

This article provides a summary of clinical assessment methods and nonpharmacologic rehabilitation techniques used for concussed patients. It describes concussion-relevant physical examination methods to identify underlying symptom generators. This approach allows practitioners to prescribe targeted rehabilitation therapies to treat postconcussion symptoms. Evidence-based rehabilitation approaches include cervical rehabilitation, vestibulo-ocular rehabilitation, and sub-symptom threshold aerobic exercise.

Does interprofessional concussion management improve recovery in varsity athletes? A year to year effectiveness-implementation hybrid study

OBJECTIVES

The main purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of an integrated interprofessional management (IPM) concussion care approach in varsity athletes.

SETTING

The study was completed in a university environment with varsity athletes.

DESIGN

Data analysis was quantitative, as compared between seasons, in this observational cohort study.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The metrics for the effectiveness of the IPM team were: time spent in treatment and post-concussion symptom severity scores. These measures were compared for each season year and both sexes for the primary concussive domain they were initially diagnosed with.

PARTICIPANTS

University varsity athletes from various in-season teams.

RESULTS

A Kruskal-Wallis revealed that 2017/18 athletes spent a significantly shorter amount of time in treatment between the two seasons, median 29 days in the 2016/17 season year (IQR = 29) versus 13 days in the 2017/18 season year (IQR = 11), for both sexes (p = 0.009). It appears women tended to recover more quickly than men, particularly in the 2016/2017 season first year.

CONCLUSIONS

A highly communicative interprofessional management (IPM) strategy was shown to lead to reduced return to play (RTP) and return to learn (RTL) times. Increased experience as an IPM team may be a factor contributing to the effectiveness in IPM strategies as well as overall concussion treatment.

Nutritional interventions to improve neurophysiological impairments following traumatic brain injury: A systematic review

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) accounts for significant global health burden. Effects of TBI can become chronic even following mild injury. There is a need to develop effective therapies to attenuate the damaging effects of TBI and improve recovery outcomes. This literature review using a priori criteria (PROSPERO; CRD42018100623) summarized 43 studies between January 1998 and July 2019 that investigated nutritional interventions (NUT) delivered with the objective of altering neurophysiological (NP) outcomes following TBI. Risk of bias was assessed for included studies, and NP outcomes recorded. The systematic search resulted in 43 of 3,748 identified studies met inclusion criteria. No studies evaluated the effect of a NUT on NP outcomes of TBI in humans. Biomarkers of morphological changes and apoptosis, oxidative stress, and plasticity, neurogenesis, and neurotransmission were the most evaluated NP outcomes across the 43 studies that used 2,897 animals. The risk of bias was unclear in all reviewed studies due to poorly detailed methodology sections. Taking these limitations into account, anti-oxidants, branched chain amino acids, and ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have shown the most promising pre-clinical results for altering NP outcomes following TBI. Refinement of pre-clinical methodologies used to evaluate effects of interventions on secondary damage of TBI would improve the likelihood of translation to clinical populations.

A preliminary cross-sectional assessment of postural control responses to continuous platform rotations following a sport-related concussion

BACKGROUND

Individuals suffering a sport-related concussion typically recover within 1 month; however, persistent post-concussive symptoms are known to occur beyond this period. Clinical guidelines may not be sufficient to determine if dynamic postural control is still impaired at the point of the return to play decision.

RESEARCH QUESTION

Do individuals with a previous sport-related concussion who have returned to play show differences in postural control compared to individuals without a previous concussion, in response to continuous platform perturbations?

METHODS

Eight previously concussed and eight age- and position-matched participants completed six one-minute trials (three with eyes open/closed) whilst stood on a moving platform that rotated about the pitch axis with a peak-to-peak amplitude of 4° at a frequency of 0.8 Hz. Six trials were also captured during static quiet stance for comparison. Reactive and anticipatory stages of postural control were analysed by determining anteroposterior margins of stability (MoS) as a measure of whole-body postural control and head-to-trunk anchoring index as an indication of the head-trunk segmental coupling strategy.

RESULTS

Posterior MoS during platform rotations reduced for both groups during eyes closed trials, but previously concussed participants exhibited a significantly greater reduction (1.97 cm) in comparison to matched-controls (0.34 cm). Participants, regardless of group, showed a preference towards a head-stabilised-to-trunk strategy during platform rotations. There were no differences during static trials.

SIGNIFICANCE

This preliminary study suggests previously concussed athletes demonstrate a greater reduction in postural control whilst undergoing continuous platform rotations with eyes closed, which could indicate possible lingering deficits to other sensory systems such as the vestibular system, though participants were not likely to lose their balance.

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo After Pediatric Sports-Related Concussion

OBJECTIVE

Report the clinical findings and outcomes among pediatric patients diagnosed with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) after sports-related concussion (SRC).

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

SETTING

Multidisciplinary pediatric concussion program.

PATIENTS

Patients younger than 19 years with a sport or recreation activity-related concussion referred for comprehensive vestibular physiotherapy assessment.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Symptom resolution after targeted particle repositioning (PR).

RESULTS

During the study period, 115 pediatric SRC patients underwent vestibular physiotherapy assessment including 12 (10.4%) who were diagnosed with BPPV. Unilateral posterior semicircular canal (SCC) BPPV was diagnosed in 8/12 (75%) patients, and unilateral anterior SCC BPPV diagnosed in 4/12 (25%) patients. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo was successfully treated in all patients with a mean of 1.58 targeted PR maneuvers (range = 1-4).

CONCLUSIONS

Comprehensive management of pediatric SRC requires a multidisciplinary approach to address the heterogeneous pathophysiology of persistent postconcussion symptoms. Pediatric SRC patients with coexisting BPPV should be considered for targeted PR.

Physical Therapy Evaluation and Treatment After Concussion/Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

Over the last decade, numerous concussion evidence-based clinical practice guidelines (CPGs), consensus statements, and clinical guidance documents have been published. These documents have typically focused on the diagnosis of concussion and medical management of individuals post concussion, but provide little specific guidance for physical therapy management of concussion and its associated impairments. Further, many of these guidance documents have targeted specific populations in specific care contexts. The primary purpose of this CPG is to provide a set of evidence-based recommendations for physical therapist management of the wide spectrum of patients who have experienced a concussive event. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2020;50(4):CPG1-CPG73. doi:10.2519/jospt.2020.0301.

Pre-frontal Cortex Oxygenation Changes During Aerobic Exercise in Elite Athletes Experiencing Sport-Related Concussion

Aims: Recent research suggests that aerobic exercise can be performed safely within the first week following a concussion injury and that early initiation of exercise may speed recovery. To better understand the physiological changes during a concussion, we tested the hypothesis that mild-to-intense exercise testing can be performed within days immediately following injury, and can be used to discern differences between the concussed and normal healthy state. Thus, the purpose was to observe the cerebral hemodynamic responses to incremental exercise testing performed acutely post-concussion in high-performance athletes. Methods: This study was a within- and between-experimental design, with seven male university ice hockey teams participating. A subgroup of five players acted as control subjects (CON) and was tested at the same time as the 14 concussed (mTBI) players on Day 2, 4, and 7 post-concussion. A 5-min resting baseline and 5-min exercise bouts of mild (EX1), moderate (EX2), and high (EX3) intensity exercise were performed on a cycle ergometer. Near-infrared spectroscopy was used to monitor pre-frontal cortex oxy-haemoglobin (HbO2), deoxy-haemoglobin (HHb), and total blood volume (tHb) changes. Results: ANOVA compared differences between testing days and groups, and although large percentage changes in HbO2 (20-30%), HHb (30-40%), and tHb (30-40%) were recorded, no significant (p ≤ 0.05) differences in cerebral hemodynamics occurred between mTBI vs. CON during aerobic exercise testing on any day post-injury. Furthermore, there was a linear relationship between exercise intensity vs. cerebral hemodynamics during testing for each day (r 2 = 0.83-0.99). Conclusion: These results demonstrate two novel findings: (1) mild-to-intense aerobic exercise testing can be performed safely as early as Day 2 post-concussion injury in a controlled laboratory environment; and (2) evidence-based objective measures such as cerebral hemodynamics can easily be collected using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to monitor physiological changes during the first-week post-injury. This research has important implications for monitoring physiological recovery post-injury and establishing new rehabilitation guidelines.

Evaluation of a pilot paediatric concussion telemedicine programme for northern communities in Manitoba

Pediatric concussion patients living in northern communities in Canada can face unique challenges accessing primary and specialized healthcare. In this study we report the clinical characteristics, healthcare utilization, outcomes and estimated cost avoidance associated with a pilot pediatric concussion telemedicine program established between a multi-disciplinary pediatric concussion program in Winnipeg, Manitoba and a hospital in Thompson, Manitoba. From October 1^st- July 1^st, 2018, 20 patients were evaluated; mean age 13.1 years, 15 (75%) males and 14 (70%) self-identified as Indigenous. Injury mechanisms included hockey (50%), falls (35%) and assaults (15%). Median time from referral to initial consultation was 2.0 days. After screening by the neurosurgeon, 90% of patients underwent initial consultation via real-time videoconferencing with 80% managed exclusively through telemedicine. At the end of the study, 90% met the criteria for clinical recovery, one remained in treatment and one was discharged to a headache neurologist. Sixty-six telemedicine encounters were completed including 57 videoconferencing appointments and 9 telephone follow-ups representing an estimated cost avoidance of $40,972.94. This study suggests telemedicine may be a useful approach to assist pediatric concussion programs with delivering timely, safe and cost-effective care to patients living in medically underserviced remote and northern communities in Canada.

Combined Optokinetic Treatment and Vestibular Rehabilitation to Reduce Visually Induced Dizziness in a Professional Ice Hockey Player After Concussion: A Clinical Case

Background: The appropriate detection and therapy of concussion symptoms are of great importance to avoid long-term impairment and absence from pre-concussive activities, such as sport, school or work. Post-traumatic headache and dizziness are known as risk factors of persistent symptoms after a concussion. Dizziness has even been classified as a predictor for symptom persistence. One type of dizziness, which has never been considered is visually induced dizziness (VID) often develops as a consequence of vestibular impairment. This manuscript presents the clinical case of a 25-year-old male, professional ice hockey player, whereby a therapeutic approach to VID after concussion is demonstrated.

Case: A detailed interdisciplinary clinical and laboratory-assisted neurological, neurovestibular and ocular-motor examination was performed 20 days post-concussion, which indicated VID symptoms. Thus, the player qualified for a 5-day combined vestibular, balance and optokinetic therapy, which aimed to reduce the player's increased sensitivity to visual information. Each treatment day consisted of two sessions: vestibular/ocular-motor training and exposure to optokinetic stimuli combined with postural control exercises. The optokinetic stimulus was delivered in the form of a rotating disk. VID symptoms were recorded daily via posturography and a visual analog scale prior to the optokinetic sessions. The player improved over the course of each treatment day and was able to return to ice hockey 15 days after the final treatment session. Three months later the player reported no symptoms in the follow up questionnaire.

Conclusion: The combination of vestibular, balance and optokinetic therapy led to remission of VID symptoms in a professional ice hockey player after multiple concussions, within a short time frame after his last concussion. Thus, this case study highlights the significant benefit of treating post-concussive VID symptoms utilizing a multi-modal approach.

A novel clinical practice tool increases patients’ understanding of concussion care within an inter-disciplinary clinic

Background

Concussion patients who experience prolonged symptoms may benefit from evidence-based, physician-led, inter-disciplinary care. The success of this approach may depend on a patient’s understanding and adherence to a complex, multi-modal recovery process.

Objectives

We have developed a novel clinical care guide for post-injury concussion caretermed the “Treatment Passport,” intended to facilitate greater communication and understanding among patients, healthcare providers, family members, teachers, and coaches. This study aims to assess whether the Treatment Passport increases patients’ understanding of their concussion care in an inter-disciplinary setting.

Methods

Patients presenting with sports- or recreation-related concussions were randomly assigned to the intervention ( n = 15) or control ( n = 18) group. Subjects in the control group received physician-led, inter-disciplinary care, while subjects in the intervention group received the same care, but with the addition of the Treatment Passport. After four weeks of treatment, participants in both groups completed an 11-question survey to assess their understanding of inter-disciplinary concussion care.

Results

The median age of participants was 20 (range 10–63). Participants in the intervention group showed significant increases in their understanding of inter-disciplinary concussion care when compared to control group members. This was reflected in a 2.1–2.8-fold greater understanding of the cognitive, physical, and vestibular aspects of their care. In addition, 86.7% of control group participants indicated they believed that the Treatment Passport would have helped with their concussion recovery journey.

Conclusion

The Treatment Passport is a novel clinical tool that facilitates the delivery of standardized inter-disciplinary concussion care by increasing patient-caregiver communication and understanding.

Activity and Exercise Intolerance After Concussion: Identification and Management of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome

Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text.

Background and Purpose:

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is increasingly recognized as a complication affecting recovery from concussion. Individuals with POTS demonstrate refractory dizziness, lightheadedness, cognitive dysfunction, fatigue, headache, chronic pain, nausea and gastrointestinal dysmotility, activity and exercise intolerance, syncope, and tachycardia. Subtypes of POTS may include hypovolemia, hyperadrenergic states, autonomic neuropathy, and underlying autoimmunity, which may variably impact response to rehabilitation in varying ways. The subtle presentation of POTS postconcussion is often mistaken for underlying anxiety, conversion disorder, or lack of motivation for recovery. This article will present clinical features of POTS that may arise after concussion, and propose a role for physical therapists in the diagnosis and management of POTS during concussion recovery.

Summary of Key Points:

Data recorded and entered into a database during clinic visits from a large pediatric institution indicate that 11.4% of individuals diagnosed with POTS report onset of symptoms within 3 months of sustaining a concussion. Activation of the sympathetic nervous system can result in lightheadedness, shortness of breath, chest pain, tachycardia, palpitations on standing or with exertion, and activity and exercise intolerance. Identified comorbidities in people with POTS such as joint hypermobility and autoimmune disorders can further influence recovery.

Recommendations for Clinical Practice:

Physical therapists may identify signs and symptoms of POTS in a subset of individuals who remain refractory to typical interventions and who exhibit symptom exacerbation with orthostatic activity. Incorporation of an individualized POTS exercise program into current established concussion interventions may be useful, with emphasis on initial recumbent exercises and ongoing physical therapy assessment of exercise tolerance for dosing of activity intensity and duration.

Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A211).

An Exploration of the Impact of Initial Timing of Physical Therapy on Safety and Outcomes After Concussion in Adolescents

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Physical therapy (PT) is a management strategy increasingly recognized to facilitate recovery after concussion. The purpose of this study was to investigate the safety and outcomes of multimodal impairment-based PT at varying time points after injury in youth diagnosed with concussion.

METHODS

Data were extracted retrospectively from medical records for patients who received PT for concussion-related impairments. Patient records were categorized into 3 cohorts on the basis of the timing of PT implementation: 0-20 days following injury (early intervention), 21 to 41 days following injury (middle intervention), and 42 or more days following injury (late intervention). The primary outcome measure was Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory score from the beginning to the end of the PT episode of care. Additional outcome measures included number of PT sessions, duration of PT episode of care (days), and occurrence of unplanned visits to a health care provider.

RESULTS

A total of 120 patient records (mean age of 14.77 years) were analyzed. Thirty-three, 39, and 48 individuals were categorized into the early, middle, and late intervention cohorts, respectively. There were no significant differences between intervention cohorts with regard to symptom change on the Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory from the beginning to the end of the PT episode of care, unplanned health care visits, number of PT sessions, or duration of PT episode of care.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Early initiation of PT may be safe and tolerable. Future prospective studies are needed to explore the efficacy of PT services administered early following injury to help characterize an optimal care plan for youth following concussion.Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A210).

SYMPTOM INSTABILITY AND A PROPOSED CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM FOR THE PHYSICAL THERAPY MANAGEMENT OF SPORTS-RELATED CONCUSSION

BACKGROUND

Individuals can experience headaches, dizziness, cervical dysfunction, balance disturbances, fatigue, and oculomotor impairments following a concussion. Patients with sports-related concussions are not a homogenous group but rather heterogenous groups with mixed clinical findings.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this clinical commentary is to propose a classification system developed specifically for the physical therapy management of sports-related concussions.

DESCRIPTION

The concept of "symptom instability" was introduced to assist with classifying patients. The time period post-concussion, symptom instability, and the ability to identify symptom triggers were used as defining criteria. The end result was a classification system with five clinical subgroups.

RELATIONSHIP TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

The classification system assists in forming homogeneous groups. The grouping of patients into these subgroups can allow for improved efficiency of organizing treatment plans.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

5.

The Potential of Telemedicine to Improve Pediatric Concussion Care in Rural and Remote Communities in Canada

Concussion is a form of mild traumatic brain injury that affects thousands of Canadian children and adolescents annually. Despite national efforts to harmonize the recognition and management of pediatric concussion in Canada, timely access to primary and specialized care following this injury remains a challenge for many patients especially those who live in rural and remote communities. To address similar challenges facing patients with stroke and other neurological disorders, physicians have begun to leverage advances in telemedicine to improve the delivery of specialized neurological care to those living in medically underserved regions. Preliminary studies suggest that telemedicine may be a safe and cost-effective approach to assist in the medical care of select patients with acute concussion and persistent post-concussion symptoms. Here we provide an overview of telemedicine, teleneurology, the principles of concussion assessment and management, as well as the current state of concussion care in Canada. Utilizing preliminary evidence from studies of telemedicine in concussion and experience from comprehensive systems of care for stroke, we outline steps that must be taken to evaluate the potential of telemedicine-based concussion networks to improve the care of pediatric concussion patients living in underserved rural and remote communities in Canada.

Why exercise may be beneficial in concussion rehabilitation: A cellular perspective

INTRODUCTION

Concussion diagnosis and rehabilitation management has become a prevalent area of research, and yet much is still unknown about these complex injuries. Historically, exercise prescription post-concussion was conservatively used for rehabilitation due to the suspected harmful effects that exercise can have on damaged neurons, and increase in symptoms. However, there has been a shift to implement exercise earlier into recovery as several studies have demonstrated positive outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this literature review is to update the reader about new advances in concussion research related to the beneficial effects of physical activity from both a neurometabolic and a broader physiological perspective, using gene expression as a vehicle to demonstrate why and how physical activity has the capacity to optimize recovery from a cellular perspective. To further this clinical guideline, the evidence must continue to support these positive outcomes from an inductive and deductive physiologic approach (i.e., the clinical evidence aligned from a micro- to macroscopic approach and vice versa).

DESIGN

Narrative review.

METHODS

Pubmed and Medline were used with the following key words: concussion and, physical activity, neurometabolic, gene regulation, trauma, nervous system, mild head injury, acute exercise, cellular physiology and pathophysiology.

CONCLUSION

It is our contention that understanding the cellular perspective will help guide clinical management, and promote research into post-concussion exercise.

The Role of Physical Therapy in Concussion Rehabilitation

A complex diagnosis such as concussion requires a multidisciplinary patient-centered approach to maximize health outcomes. There is growing evidence to support the role of the Physical Therapist as a key member of the team of healthcare professionals managing children and adolescents with a protracted recovery following concussion. Symptoms such as headache, dizziness, neck pain, gaze instability, balance dysfunction, and fatigue can be addressed through a multimodel approach. This article provides an overview of the targeted pathways of examination and treatment of individuals with a concussion through vestibular rehabilitation, cervicogenic rehabilitation, exertional training, and patient education.