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Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Autonomic Function Following Concussion in Youth Athletes: An Exploration of Heart Rate Variability Using 24-hour Recording Methodology
Published on: September 21, 2018
Transient suppression of heart rate complexity in concussed athletes
Michael F La Fountaine1, Kevin S Heffernan, James D Gossett
1Center of Excellence on the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10468, USA. Michael.LaFountaine@va.gov
Abstract:
Heart rate variability (HRV) and complexity (HRC) were calculated at rest and during an isometric hand grip test (IHGT) within 48-hours (48 h) and two weeks (Week Two) of a concussion in athletes (CG) and control subjects. No differences were present at rest or in HRV during IGHT. HRC was significantly lower in the CG compared to controls at 48 h during IHGT. In CG at Week Two during IHGT, HRC was significantly greater than 48 h observations and not significantly different than controls. The findings suggest that HRC may have utility in detecting efferent cardiac autonomic anomalies within two weeks of concussion.
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