Reduced Resting and Increased Elevation of Heart Rate Variability With Cognitive Task Performance in Concussed
Mu Huang1, Justin Frantz, Gilbert Moralez
1Department of Applied Physiology and Wellness, Simmons School of Education and Human Development (Drs Huang, S. L. Davis and Purkayastha and Mr Frantz), and Dr Bob Smith Health Center (Dr P. F. Davis), Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas; Institute for Exercise and Environmental Medicine, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital, Dallas (Dr Moralez); Departments of Pediatrics/Division of Pediatric Neurology & Pain Management (Dr Sabo) and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (Dr Bell), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas.
Athletes with concussion showed lower resting heart rate variability (HRV). A cognitive task improved HRV in concussed athletes, suggesting enhanced brain function and aiding return to learn.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Sports Medicine
- Cardiology
Background:
- Concussion can impact autonomic nervous system function, affecting heart rate variability (HRV).
- Assessing HRV may offer insights into recovery and cognitive function post-concussion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate resting and task-induced heart rate variability (HRV) in athletes during the acute phase after concussion.
- To compare HRV between concussed athletes and non-injured controls during a cognitive task.
Main Methods:
- Continuous R-R interval data collected via electrocardiogram at rest and during a 2-Back cognitive task.
- Heart rate variability quantified as percent high-frequency (HF) power.
Main Results:
- Concussed athletes exhibited lower resting HRV (percent HF power) compared to controls.
- During the 2-Back task, concussed athletes showed increased HRV, comparable to controls.
- Controls did not show significant HRV changes between rest and task conditions.
Conclusions:
- Concussion is associated with reduced resting HRV.
- Cognitive tasks may enhance prefrontal cortex (PFC) functioning in concussed athletes.
- Early cognitive engagement may support return-to-learn protocols for collegiate athletes.
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