School performance in youth after a concussion.

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Neurology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Concussion recovery in youth requires careful management, especially concerning return to school (RTS).
• Understanding school-related challenges and cognitive function during recovery is crucial for effective support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify school problems and cognitive activity levels in youth aged 5-18 with concussion during RTS stages.
• To analyze the differences in reported school problems between youth and parents.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cohort study with in-person assessments at three recovery time points.
• Utilized Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS), cognitive activity scales, school questionnaires, and ImPACT testing.
• Data collected every 2 days until symptom resolution.

Main Results:

• 50% of youth reported school problems at the first visit post-injury (average 7.7 days), decreasing to 18% by follow-up.
• Significant differences in perceived school problems between youth and parents were noted at different recovery stages.
• Cognitive activity scores increased as Post-Concussion Symptom Scale scores decreased during RTS stages.

Conclusions:

• School problems are common early in concussion recovery but decrease over time.
• Gathering insights from both youth and parents is vital for a comprehensive understanding of recovery.
• Findings support tailored return-to-school strategies and accommodations for concussed youth.