Assessing Concussions In Collegiate Football Players

Abstract

PURPOSE: Concussion-related injuries are approximately 6% of all collegiate injuries. Assessing and managing concussions are generally a multifaceted approach (Guskiewicz et al., 2004), but research in this area has been insufficient, especially within the university football population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate symptoms and recovery periods after a concussion was identified in college football players, using balance and a computerized neurocognitive assessment tool. METHODS: Division 1 college football athletes, from 18 to 24 years (n = 166; age, 19.3±1.2 y; height, 183.6±5.5 cm; weight, 102.7±7.6 kg), before fall practice, over a period of 3 years, underwent baseline postural stability testing (sensory organization test [SOT], NeuroCom) and the Impact assessment. Players, who had a concussion (e.g., headache, dizziness, fatigue, confusion, and/or loss of consciousness) during practice or actual competition (n=15, 18.6±.8 y, 185.9±4.5 cm, 107.8±6.6 kg), were reevaluated on both assessments, starting at 24 hours post-concussion. When the player was considered asymptomatic, the test was repeated on the 1st and 7th day. They did retake the online concussion assessment. A control group of non-concussed college males were age-matched to the concussed player. The controls were tested during the same time frame as the concussed players. RESULTS: Results indicated the concussion group had a statistically significant (p = 0.037) change from their baseline SOT (balance) score and the control group (p = 0.025). This change remained significant until day 14 of post-testing. The concussion online assessment also was significant (p=0.41) from their pre-test scores. CONCLUSIONS: The online (Impact) and balance (SOT) assessment tests, if available, should be considered as other methods of evaluating concussed college-aged football players. This information may also provide additional scientific data to aid with the decision for the player to exercise, attend football practice and, possibly, return to play. This study was only one small part of the complete evaluation provided to the decision makers (physicians, coaches, athletic trainers, and strength and conditioning coaches) in the concussed athlete’s return to play.