Alterations in Baroreflex Sensitivity and Blood Pressure Variability Following Sport-Related Concussion

Area of Science:

• Physiology
• Sports Medicine
• Neurology

Background:

• Current concussion diagnosis relies on subjective assessments, lacking objective confirmation.
• Previous research on physiological biomarkers for concussion has yielded conflicting results.
• Objective measures are needed to support clinical diagnosis and guide return-to-play decisions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess heart rate variability (HRV), spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), and blood pressure variability (BPV) in athletes post-concussion.
• To identify objective physiological parameters that may aid in concussion diagnosis and management.

Main Methods:

• A 5-minute seated rest followed by a 5-minute controlled breathing protocol (0.1 Hz) was used.
• Assessments were conducted at baseline and during the acute phase (days 1-5) post-concussion.
• Thirty participants completed the study protocol.

Main Results:

• Significant decreases in total and low-frequency BPV spectral power were observed during the acute concussion phase.
• Spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) showed significant increases in both down-sequence and up-sequence measures.
• Heart rate variability (HRV) also demonstrated significant decreases in the acute phase.

Conclusions:

• Acute concussion significantly alters BRS and BPV dynamics compared to baseline physiological measures.
• These objective physiological parameters show promise for improving concussion diagnosis.
• Findings suggest potential utility in return-to-play protocols for concussed athletes.