Factors associated with concussion management behavior in Ladies Gaelic Football players

ABSTRACT

Background

Sport-related concussion (SRC) management may be poor in community sports such as Ladies Gaelic Football (LGF). This study examined factors associated with SRC management behavior in adult LGF players.

Methods

Participants (n = 657) answered an online survey on demographic factors, concussion knowledge, attitudes, and education, and SRC management behavior. Data from participants who reported sustaining an LGF-related SRC during the previous year (n = 115) were further analyzed.

Results

Being diagnosed with SRC was the main factor influencing subacute management behavior. Players with diagnosed SRCs had increased odds of following a graded return-to-play (RTP) programme (OR = 4.89), following a medically supervised graded RTP programme (OR = 10.16), and being medically cleared before full RTP (OR = 13.45) compared with those with suspected SRCs. Concussion history was associated with increased odds of informing a coach of a possible SRC (OR = 2.86). Demographic factors, previous use of Ladies Gaelic Football Association concussion education resources, and concussion knowledge and attitudes had minimal or no influence on management behaviors.

Conclusion

Greater access to medical personnel at LGF training and matches is recommended. Due to limited medical resources in community sport, a clear referral pathway for players with SRC and comprehensive SRC education should be introduced to ensure players receive adequate medical care.

KEYWORDS:

• athletic injuries
• traumatic brain injury
• return to sport
• concussion management
• female

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank the Ladies Gaelic Football Association for promoting the survey online, as well as all participants who answered the survey.

Disclosure statement

Róisín Leahy received a postgraduate scholarship from the Irish Research Council and the Ladies Gaelic Football Association (Grant EPSPG/2019/492). Anthony P. Kontos was awarded research funding from the National Football League through the University of Pittsburgh and has received royalties from APA books. Michael W. Collins was a shareholder in and co-owner of ImPACT Applications, Inc until 12/16/2019. The other authors have no other conflicts of interest to declare.

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author, [RL], upon reasonable request.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Irish Research Council and the Ladies Gaelic Football Association through the Enterprise Partnership Scheme (Grant EPSPG/2019/492)