Risk factors for prolonged recovery from concussion in young patients

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Sports Medicine
• Neurology
• Public Health

Background:

• Assessing concussion recovery in young athletes is vital for safe return to play.
• Identifying risk factors can help clinicians predict prolonged recovery timelines.
• Understanding these factors is essential for managing pediatric concussion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify risk factors for prolonged (>28 days) and extended (>90 days) concussion recovery in young patients.
• To analyze how these risk factors differ between prolonged and extended recovery groups.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of electronic health records from 4937 patients aged 10-18 years.
• Data included demographics, comorbidities (prior psychiatric diagnoses, concussions), and injury characteristics.
• Modified Poisson regression models were used to examine risk factors.

Main Results:

• Prior concussions and higher initial symptom scores were associated with prolonged recovery.
• Older age and a history of anxiety increased the risk of extended recovery.
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder was linked to prolonged recovery, while anxiety was linked to extended recovery.

Conclusions:

• Risk factors for prolonged and extended concussion recovery in young patients differ.
• Mental health considerations, such as anxiety and ADHD, play a significant role in concussion recovery timelines.
• These findings highlight the importance of a comprehensive approach to managing pediatric concussion.