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Published on: September 25, 2014
Rehabilitation Involving Tailored Subsymptomatic Aerobic Exercise in Adult Patients With Persistent Postconcussion
Bodil Wiberg Larsson1, Mette Kreutzfeldt Zebis1,2, Jakob Vismann1
1Department of Midwifery, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Psychomotor Therapy, Faculty of Health, University College Copenhagen, Sigurdsgade 26, Copenhagen, Capital Region, 2200 N, Denmark, 45 40318993.
JMIR Research Protocols
|June 4, 2026
Summary
This study investigated a 12-week graded aerobic exercise program for persistent postconcussion symptoms (PPCSs) after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Findings aim to improve physical function and reduce symptom severity in PPCS patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Sports Medicine
- Rehabilitation
Background:
- Persistent postconcussion symptoms (PPCSs) significantly impair daily functioning after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).
- Current understanding and rehabilitation strategies for PPCSs in adults require further exploration, particularly regarding brain function and patient perception.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the physiological and neurofunctional effects of a tailored subsymptomatic aerobic exercise program on PPCSs.
- To assess the impact of this intervention on symptom perception and overall quality of life.
- To gather patient and researcher feedback for a comprehensive understanding of PPCS complexity and inform future mTBI treatment.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 70 patients with PPCSs, comparing a 12-week aerobic exercise group with a control group.
- Utilized the Buffalo Concussion Bike Test (BCBT) for graded exercise, alongside qualitative interviews, physical tests, and neuroimaging (MRI) to assess neurophysiological changes.
- Employed a multimodal approach combining subjective patient reports with objective clinical and neuroimaging data.
Main Results:
- Data analysis is currently ongoing, with results expected to be published in 2027.
- The study is designed to measure improvements in physical performance (primary outcome) and reductions in symptom severity, alongside neurophysiological function and quality of life (secondary outcomes).
Conclusions:
- This study offers an innovative approach to PPCS management by combining individualized exercise with neurofunctional exploration.
- Findings are expected to significantly advance the field of PPCS management and potentially reshape rehabilitation practices for mTBI.
- The research emphasizes the importance of understanding both objective measures and subjective patient experiences in treating PPCSs.
