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Updated: Jun 6, 2026
11:32
A Neuroscientific Approach to the Examination of Concussions in Student-Athletes
Published on: December 8, 2014
Concussion Symptom Resolution Expectations and Subsequent Development of Persisting Symptoms After Adolescent
Ross Moseley1,2, Mathew J Wingerson1,2, Katelyn D Hurlburt1,2
1Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora.
Journal of Athletic Training
|June 5, 2026
Summary
Adolescents who expected longer concussion recovery times were more likely to experience persisting symptoms after concussion (PSaC). Educating patients on realistic recovery expectations is crucial for managing concussion outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pediatrics
- Psychology
Background:
- Patient recovery expectations can impact actual recovery trajectories.
- The influence of recovery expectations on concussion outcomes in adolescents is not fully understood.
- Persisting symptoms after concussion (PSaC) represent a significant challenge in adolescent recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between anticipated symptom resolution time and the development of PSaC in adolescents.
- To test the hypothesis that longer anticipated recovery times correlate with increased odds of developing PSaC.
Main Methods:
- A prospective cohort study involving adolescents diagnosed with concussion.
- Participants (n=87) were enrolled within 21 days of injury and reported their expected recovery duration.
- PSaC was defined as symptoms persisting beyond 28 days post-injury; follow-up exceeded one month.
Main Results:
- 45% of adolescents developed PSaC, with an average anticipated recovery time of 3.1 weeks.
- Adolescents who developed PSaC anticipated significantly longer recovery periods (3.6 weeks) compared to those who did not (2.7 weeks).
- Adjusted analysis revealed that longer expected recovery time was independently associated with higher odds of developing PSaC (OR=2.22, P=0.01).
Conclusions:
- Adolescent concussion recovery expectations are significantly associated with the development of PSaC.
- Clinicians should provide anticipatory guidance and patient education to manage recovery expectations.
- Addressing potentially inaccurate information sources is vital for guiding adolescent concussion recovery.
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