Mindfulness-Based Yoga for Youth With Persistent Concussion: A Pilot Study.

Abstract

We explored the potential impact of mindfulness-based yoga (MBY) for youth with persistent concussion by examining occupation-based and neurophysiological outcomes. In this case series design study, 6 youths ages 13-17 yr with concussion symptoms for >4 wk participated in an 8-wk MBY intervention, 1×/wk for 45 min. Participation, self-efficacy, and heart rate variability (24 hr) were collected before, after, and 3 mo after the intervention. Heart rate variability was also measured during each session. Trends of increased self-efficacy in academic, social, and emotional domains were found after MBY and maintained at 3-mo follow-up. Trends of increasing heart rate variability were also found pre- to postintervention and within the eight MBY sessions. Preliminary results reveal positive trends after a novel, safe intervention for youth with persistent concussion symptoms and the value of exploring both occupation-based and neurophysiological measures. Future research with a larger sample and control group is warranted.