Adolescent and parent experiences with Tele-Active Rehabilitation for concussion: an exploratory qualitative study

ABSTRACT

Purpose

To explore the experiences of adolescents with concussion and their parents who participated in a novel remotely delivered Tele-Active Rehabilitation (Tele-AR) intervention involving sub-symptom threshold exercise, education, and support. Specifically, we aimed to elicit perspectives regarding the remote delivery approach, valued aspects of the program, and perceived benefits of the intervention.

Methods

This qualitative study took place within the context of a larger mixed-methods project exploring the feasibility of the Tele-AR intervention. A descriptive qualitative design was utilized. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with adolescents (n = 3; ages 14–17 years) with concussion and one of their parents (n = 3) within one week of completing the six-week Tele-AR intervention. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Four themes were identified that capture participant experiences in the intervention: (1) Enabling access to active rehabilitation; (2) Focusing on individual needs; (3) Learning to take responsibility for recovery; and (4) Convenience and comfort of engaging in rehabilitation from home.

Conclusions

A small sample of 3 adolescents with concussion and their parents were satisfied with the Tele-AR intervention and appreciated the convenience and comfort of engaging in rehabilitation from home, which facilitated adolescents taking responsibility for their own recovery. Findings support continued study of Tele-AR, which may be an accessible intervention to facilitate recovery in adolescents with concussion.

KEYWORDS:

• Concussion
• pediatric
• rehabilitation
• exercise
• telerehabilitation

Disclosure statement

NR is a holder of a Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Pediatric Concussion and reports receiving grants and research funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Ontario Neurotrauma Foundation, Public Health Agency of Canada, Parachute Canada, Special Olympics Canada, Greater Toronto Hockey League, Dr Tom Pashby Sport Safety Fund, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, and Scotiabank. NR is an investigator in a multicenter study funded by the National Football League Scientific Advisory Board; NR does not receive any research funding or financial benefit. NR is a minority shareholder in 360 Concussion Care, an interdisciplinary concussion clinic.

Additional information

Funding

This research was supported by the Canadian Institutes of HealthResearch (Frederick Banting and Charles Best Canada Graduate ScholarshipMaster’s); Ontario Graduate Scholarship and the Hilda and William Courtney Clayton Paediatric Fund.