Physical activity after mild traumatic brain injury: What are the relationships with fatigue and sleep quality? Is physical activity a key to prevention of post-concussive symptoms?

Abstract

Acquired brain injury (ABI) in children and youth has been designated as a neglected area in medicine and a ‘silent’ epidemic.1 Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common injury during childhood and youth and one of the leading causes of death and disability. The estimated yearly incidence in western countries is 225–296 per 100.0000 for the age group 15–25 years.1,2 The majority of injuries (>95%) are of mild severity and most children recover completely. However, it is now increasingly recognized that mild TBI (mTBI) may lead to persistent problems in up to 21% of children 12–24 months trauma.