Interdisciplinary intervention (GAIN) for adults with post-concussion symptoms: a study protocol for a stepped-wedge...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Persistent post-concussion symptoms (PCS) lead to prolonged disability and reduced quality of life.
• Existing treatments for PCS lack strong evidence.
• The Get going After concussIoN (GAIN) intervention integrates prescribed exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy, and gradual activity advice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test the effectiveness of the GAIN intervention in a broader municipality setting and age group.
• To evaluate a wider range of outcomes associated with PCS.
• To test the primary hypothesis that GAIN plus enhanced usual care reduces PCS more than enhanced usual care alone.

Main Methods:

• A stepped-wedge cluster-randomised trial with five clusters.
• The 8-week GAIN program rolled out in 3-month intervals.
• Enrollment of at least 180 participants; primary outcome measured by Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire at 3 months post-treatment.

Main Results:

• The trial is designed to provide data on the effectiveness of GAIN in a community setting.
• Secondary outcomes include daily activity participation, satisfaction, and labor market attachment.
• Long-term outcomes will be assessed up to 36 months post-concussion.

Conclusions:

• The trial will yield crucial information on the effectiveness of the GAIN intervention in a real-world community setting.
• Findings will inform potential barriers and facilitators for future GAIN implementation.
• This study expands on previous research by testing GAIN in a broader population and setting.