Physical activity following sport-related concussion in adolescents: a systematic review

The systematic review evaluated the evidence related to how physical activity affects recovery following a sport-related concussion (SRC) in adolescents. Databases indexed were PUBMED, MEDLINE, and SPORTDiscus. Inclusion criteria included 1) original research article, 2) ≥66% have an SRC diagnosed by a clinician, 3) human research, and 4) evaluated the effect of an SRC on physical activity in adolescents only (<18 yr). Participants were seen within 1-2 wk after SRC for acute studies and 4 wk after SRC for studies focused on prolonged recoveries, which are standard timelines across the literature. Twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria [i.e., 8 regarding physical activity (PA-daily aerobic activity including light and moderate intensities), 8 evaluating active rehabilitation/exercise programs (20 min of daily aerobic exercise below symptom threshold), 6 examining a single bout of exertion]. The methodological quality of the literature was assessed using the Downs and Black risk of bias (ROB) checklist. The ROB scores ranged from 7 to 24, with only two randomized controlled trials included. Studies demonstrated that single bouts of exertion testing were safe and feasible. Daily PA or active rehabilitation/exercise programs led to a reduction in symptoms present and a decrease in number of days to medical clearance. Following a brief period of rest (24-48 h), individuals may gradually and safely return to PA below their physical symptom exacerbation thresholds. Further research is warranted to delineate how to optimize the timing, intensity, duration, and modality of PA impacts symptom resolution and physiological recovery following different subtypes of SRC.