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Published on: September 25, 2014
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Concussion May Increase the Risk of Subsequent Lower Extremity Musculoskeletal Injury in Collegiate Athletes
Daniel C Herman1, Debi Jones2, Ashley Harrison3
1Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, PO Box 112727, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA. hermadc@ortho.ufl.edu.
Sports Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.)
|August 22, 2016
Summary
Athletes who return to play after a concussion have a significantly higher risk of lower extremity injuries. This finding highlights the need for updated concussion management protocols to prevent further harm.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Neurology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Concussion may elevate the risk of subsequent musculoskeletal injuries, supported by laboratory and epidemiological research.
- Neuromuscular control deficits post-concussion are a potential contributing factor.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between concussion and the risk of lower extremity musculoskeletal injury in collegiate athletes after their return to play.
- To quantify the injury risk in athletes who have sustained a concussion compared to uninjured controls.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of injury data from 2006-2013 at a Division I university across multiple sports.
- Identified 90 concussed athletes with return to play and matched them with uninjured controls based on sport, status, and position.
- Reviewed a 90-day period post-return to play for time-loss lower extremity injuries.
Main Results:
- Concussed athletes experienced lower extremity injuries at a higher rate (50%) compared to non-concussed athletes (20%).
- The odds of sustaining a musculoskeletal injury were 3.39 times greater in athletes who had a concussion.
- The total days lost due to injury were comparable between concussed and non-concussed groups.
Conclusions:
- A significant relationship exists between concussion and increased lower extremity injury risk following return to play.
- Findings suggest current medical standards for concussion evaluation and management may require revision.
- Emphasizes the importance of comprehensive post-concussion assessment before full return to sport participation.
