Cumulative concussion exposure in rugby players: Neurocognitive and symptomatic outcomes

Abstract

A total of 111 rugby players underwent comprehensive testing to determine the impact of self-reported concussion exposure. Reliable estimates of concussion exposure were associated with an increase in postconcussion symptoms (PCS), but not diminished neurocognitive functioning. Importantly, the effects of concussion exposure on PCS varied as a function of player status. More specifically, extent of concussion exposure was associated with increased memory complaints and overall PCS endorsements in a dose-dependent manner for retired and older recreational players, but not for those who were younger and playing at more competitive levels. Future work should systematically evaluate the constituent participant factors that may influence differential concussion outcomes.

The authors would like to thank The British Columbia Rugby Union for its complete support of this project. We also thank Chris Blackman for his logistical assistance in all aspects of the data collection, Preston Wiley for his enthusiastic support of the project in its formative stages, and the Sport Medicine Council of British Columbia for their cooperation. Additionally, we thank Wendy Loken Thornton for her helpful comments on an earlier version of this paper. Finally, the authors wish to gratefully acknowledge the cooperation of all research participants in donating their time to this project. This research was supported by a Neurotrauma Initiative Grant from the Rick Hansen Foundation and by funding from the Social Science and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) of Canada.

Notes

¹The number of Grade 1 nonrugby events was not ascertained; all Grades 2 and 3 nonrugby events were counted.