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A Multi-Modal Approach to Assessing Recovery in Youth Athletes Following Concussion
Published on: September 25, 2014
Pediatric sports-related concussion
Kevin M Guskiewicz1, Tamara C Valovich McLeod
1Department of Exercise and Sport Science, 209 Fetzer, CB#8700, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-8700, USA. gus@email.unc.edu
PM & R : the Journal of Injury, Function, and Rehabilitation
|April 19, 2011
Summary
Pediatric concussion research is limited, showing longer recovery times for children and adolescents. A conservative approach is crucial for young athletes
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Sports Medicine
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- Sports-related concussions in children and adolescents are a growing concern.
- Existing literature on pediatric concussion is limited, particularly regarding epidemiology and etiology.
- The unique physiological and cognitive development of young athletes necessitates specific considerations for concussion management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize existing pediatric concussion literature.
- To examine epidemiology, etiology, return to play protocols, and recurrent concussion risks in young athletes.
- To provide recommendations for future research directions in pediatric concussion.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of pediatric concussion.
- Databases searched include MEDLINE, CINAHL, Sport-Discus, and PsychInfo (1995-2010).
- Reference lists of identified articles were also reviewed.
Main Results:
- Research on sports-related concussion in children and adolescents is notably limited.
- Concussion incidence appears relatively rare compared to other pediatric sports injuries.
- Children and adolescents demonstrate longer recovery periods than adults, highlighting risks of mismanagement and subsequent injuries.
Conclusions:
- A more conservative management approach is warranted for pediatric concussion.
- Standard assessment tools may be less effective for tracking recovery in developing brains.
- Further research is essential to better understand concussion mechanisms, responses, and recovery in young athletes.
