A comprehensive, targeted approach to the clinical care of athletes following sport-related concussion

Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2014 Feb;22(2):235-46. doi: 10.1007/s00167-013-2791-6. Epub 2013 Dec 12.

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to discuss risk and prognostic factors for concussion outcomes, review comprehensive approaches to assessment, and describe a new method for conceptualizing treatment for sport-related concussion using clinical experience.

Methods: Based on the current literature of sport-related concussion and clinical experience, an approach for conceptualizing concussion care using clinical trajectories and targeted treatments was developed.

Results: A comprehensive approach to assessment and targeted treatments for sport-related concussion was developed using specific clinical trajectories.

Conclusion: Sport-related concussions are heterogeneous and require an individualized clinical approach. The use of a comprehensive approach for assessing specific clinical trajectories following a sport-related concussion will help clinicians better conceptualize this injury. Clinicians can then match targeted treatment pathways to specific clinical trajectories to accelerate safe return to play for athletes following a sport-related concussion.

MeSH terms

  • Athletic Injuries / diagnosis
  • Athletic Injuries / therapy*
  • Brain Concussion / diagnosis
  • Brain Concussion / etiology
  • Brain Concussion / therapy*
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Comprehensive Health Care / methods*
  • Humans
  • Prognosis
  • Risk Factors