ABSTRACT
Primary Objective
The objective of this study was to examine neurocognition, postural control, and symptomology at multiple timepoints following concussion. We hypothesized that collegiate athletes would perform similar to or better than their baseline in terms of each outcome at both timepoints.
Research Design
This was a retrospective study of 71 collegiate athletes (18.3 ± 0.89 years old; 182.2 ± 10.05 cm; 84.2 ± 20.07 kg) to observe changes in outcomes from a previously established clinical protocol.
Methods and Procedures
Participants were administered ImPACT™, the Sensory Organization Test (SOT), and the revised head injury scale (HIS-r) prior to their seasons (baseline); upon reporting symptom-free following concussion (post-injury); and approximately 8-months after return-to-play to establish a new baseline.
Main Outcomes and Results
There were no changes in ImPACT scores or HIS-r reporting over time. ImPACT total symptom score (TSS) decreased over time (p = .002, ηp2 = 0.08). Significant main effects occurred for the SOT equilibrium score (p < .01, ηp2 = 0.34) and Vestibular sensory ratio (p < .001, ηp2 = 0.22).
Conclusions
Our data suggest no decline in neurocognition, balance, or symptom burden approximately eight months post-injury. As clinicians continue to explore “best practices” for concussion management and potential long-term implications of these injuries it is important to monitor outcome measures longitudinally.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Correction Statement
This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.