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Wingerson MJ, Hunt DL, Wilson JC, Mannix RC, Meehan WP, Howell DR. Factors Associated with Symptom Resolution after Aerobic Exercise Intervention in Adolescent and Young Adults with Concussion. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2024; 56:783-789. [PMID: 38109187 PMCID: PMC11018463 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000003358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aerobic exercise facilitates postconcussion symptom resolution at the group level, but patient-level characteristics may affect the likelihood of treatment efficacy. PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate demographic and clinical characteristics, which differentiate postconcussion aerobic exercise treatment efficacy from nonefficacy in the intervention arm of a randomized clinical trial. METHODS Adolescent and young adult participants initiated a standardized aerobic exercise intervention within 14 d of concussion, consisting of self-selected exercise for 100 min·wk -1 at an individualized heart rate (80% of heart rate induced symptom exacerbation during graded exercise testing). Treatment efficacy was defined as symptom resolution within 28-d postconcussion. Treatment efficacy and nonefficacy groups were compared on demographics, clinical characteristics, intervention adherence, and persistent symptom risk using the Predicting Persistent Postconcussive Problems in Pediatrics (5P) clinical risk score. RESULTS A total of 27 participants (16.1 ± 2.3 yr old; range, 11-21 yr; 52% female) began the intervention, with a mean of 9.5 ± 3.7 d after concussion; half ( n = 13; 48%) demonstrated treatment efficacy (symptom resolution within 28 d postconcussion). Those whose symptoms resolved within 28 d had significantly lower preintervention postconcussion symptom inventory scores (21.2 ± 13.2 vs 41.4 ± 22.2; P < 0.01), greater adherence to the intervention (77% vs 36%; P = 0.05), and longer average exercise duration (median [interquartile range], 49.7 [36.8-68.6] vs 30.4 [20.7-34.7] min; P < 0.01) than those whose symptoms lasted more than 28 d. Groups were similar in age, sex, timing of intervention, and preintervention 5P risk score. CONCLUSIONS A standardized aerobic exercise intervention initiated within 14 d of concussion demonstrated efficacy for approximately half of participants, according to our definition of treatment efficacy. This multisite aerobic exercise intervention suggests that lower symptom severity, higher intervention adherence, and greater exercise duration are factors that increase the likelihood of symptoms resolving within 28 d of concussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew J. Wingerson
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Department of Orthopedics, Aurora, CO
- Children’s Hospital Colorado, Sports Medicine Center, Aurora, CO
| | - Danielle L. Hunt
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Micheli Center for Sports Injury Prevention, Boston, MA
| | - Julie C. Wilson
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Department of Orthopedics, Aurora, CO
- Children’s Hospital Colorado, Sports Medicine Center, Aurora, CO
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Aurora, CO
| | - Rebekah C. Mannix
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Micheli Center for Sports Injury Prevention, Boston, MA
| | - William P. Meehan
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Micheli Center for Sports Injury Prevention, Boston, MA
| | - David R. Howell
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Department of Orthopedics, Aurora, CO
- Children’s Hospital Colorado, Sports Medicine Center, Aurora, CO
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Smulligan KL, Wingerson MJ, Magliato SN, Rademacher JG, Wilson JC, Howell DR. Postconcussion Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity Predicts Anxiety Severity among Adolescent Athletes. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2024; 56:790-795. [PMID: 38181208 PMCID: PMC11018471 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000003368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to examine how moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) during concussion recovery influences self-reported anxiety symptoms at follow-up assessment. We hypothesized that more MVPA after concussion would be associated with lower anxiety rating at follow-up. METHODS We performed a prospective study of participants aged 13-18 yr initially assessed within 14 d of diagnosed concussion. Participants rated concussion symptoms using the Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory and were provided a wrist-worn actigraphy device to track activity for 1 wk after assessment. At follow-up assessment, participants rated anxiety symptoms using the four-question Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) anxiety subscale. Each question ranged from 1 (never) to 5 (almost always), with an overall score range of 4-20. For univariable analysis, we calculated correlation coefficients between MVPA and PROMIS anxiety subscale scores. We then created a multiple linear regression model with follow-up PROMIS anxiety subscale score as the outcome and MVPA, sex, initial symptom severity, and preconcussion anxiety as predictors. RESULTS We enrolled and initially tested 55 participants, and 48 were included in the final analysis (age, 14.6±2.7 yr; 56% female; initial assessment, 7.3± 3.1 d; follow-up assessment, 42.0±29.7 d). We observed an inverse and low correlation between MVPA and follow-up PROMIS anxiety subscale T-scores ( r = -0.30, P = 0.04). Multivariable regression results indicated that MVPA ( β = -5.30; 95% confidence interval (CI), -10.58 to -0.01), initial Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory score ( β = 0.11; 95% CI, 0.03 to 0.19), and preconcussion anxiety ( β = 5.56; 95% CI, 0.12 to 11.0), but not sex ( β = -2.60; 95% CI, -7.14, to 1.94), were associated with follow-up PROMIS anxiety subscale T-scores. CONCLUSIONS After adjusting for covariates, more MVPA early after concussion predicted lower PROMIS anxiety subscale scores at follow-up. Although initial concussion symptom severity and preconcussion anxiety were also associated with follow-up PROMIS anxiety subscale score, MVPA represents a modifiable factor that may contribute to lower anxiety symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine L. Smulligan
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
- Sports Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO
| | - Mathew J. Wingerson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
- Sports Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO
| | - Samantha N. Magliato
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
- Sports Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO
| | - Jacob G. Rademacher
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - Julie C. Wilson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
- Sports Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - David R. Howell
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
- Sports Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO
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Wingerson MJ, Schmitz B, Smulligan KL, Walker GA, Magliato S, Wilson JC, Howell DR. Concussion symptom presentation and clinical recovery among pediatric athletes: comparing concussions sustained during school and summer months. Brain Inj 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38511887 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2024.2332770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined post-concussion symptom presentation, exercise, and sleep among pediatric athletes who sustained concussion during the school year vs. summer months. METHODS We evaluated athletes 6-18 years old within 21-days of concussion. They reported symptoms (Health and Behavior Inventory), with cognitive/somatic domain sub-scores calculated, and indicated if they had exercised or experienced sleep problems since injury. We grouped patients by injury season: summer months (June-August) vs. school year (September-May). RESULTS 350 patients (14.4 ± 2.4 years old; 37% female; initial visit 8.8 ± 5.3 days post-concussion) were seen for care: 24% sustained a concussion during summer months, 76% during the school year. Lower cognitive (median = 7 [IQR = 1, 15] vs. 9.5 [4, 17]; p = 0.01), but not somatic (7 [2.5, 11] vs. 8 [4, 13]; p = 0.06), HBI scores were observed for patients injured during the summer. Groups were similar in proportion exercising (16% vs 17%) and endorsing sleep problems (29% vs 31%). After adjustments, sustaining a concussion during the summer predicted total (β=-3.43; 95%CI = -6.50, -0.36; p = 0.029) and cognitive (β = -2.29; 95%CI = -4.22, -0.36; p = 0.02), but not somatic (β=-1.46; 95%CI = -2.84, -0.08; p = 0.04), symptom severity. CONCLUSION Pediatric patients with concussion may present with greater cognitive symptoms during the school year, compared to summer months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew J Wingerson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver Colorado, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Baylie Schmitz
- Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program, Northern Arizona University, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Katherine L Smulligan
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver Colorado, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Gregory A Walker
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver Colorado, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Samantha Magliato
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver Colorado, USA
| | - Julie C Wilson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver Colorado, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado Denver, Colorado, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - David R Howell
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver Colorado, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado Denver, Colorado, USA
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Barnes A, Smulligan K, Wingerson MJ, Little C, Lugade V, Wilson JC, Howell DR. A Multifaceted Approach to Interpreting Reaction Time Deficits After Adolescent Concussion. J Athl Train 2024; 59:145-152. [PMID: 36701688 PMCID: PMC10895397 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0566.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Reaction time (RT) is a critical element of return to participation (RTP), and impairments have been linked to subsequent injury after a concussion. Current RT assessments have limitations in clinical feasibility and in the identification of subtle deficits after concussion symptom resolution. OBJECTIVES To examine the utility of RT measurements (clinical drop stick, simple stimulus-response, single-task Stroop, and dual-task Stroop) to differentiate between adolescents with concussion and uninjured control individuals at initial assessment and RTP. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING A pediatric sports medicine center associated with a regional tertiary care hospital. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS Twenty-seven adolescents with a concussion (mean age = 14.8 ± 2.1 years; 52% female; tested 7.0 ± 3.3 days postconcussion) and 21 uninjured control individuals (mean age = 15.5 ± 1.6 years; 48% female). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Participants completed the Post-Concussion Symptoms Inventory (PCSI) and a battery of RT tests: clinical drop stick, simple stimulus-response, single-task Stroop, and dual-task Stroop. RESULTS The concussion group demonstrated slower clinical drop stick (β = 58.8; 95% CI = 29.2, 88.3; P < .001) and dual-task Stroop (β = 464.2; 95% CI = 318.4, 610.0; P < .001) RT measures at the initial assessment than the uninjured control group. At 1-month follow up, the concussion group displayed slower clinical drop stick (238.9 ± 25.9 versus 188.1 ± 21.7 milliseconds; P < .001; d = 2.10), single-task Stroop (1527.8 ± 204.5 versus 1319.8 ± 133.5 milliseconds; P = .001; d = 1.20), and dual-task Stroop (1549.9 ± 264.7 versus 1341.5 ± 114.7 milliseconds; P = .002; d = 1.04) RT than the control group, respectively, while symptom severity was similar between groups (7.4 ± 11.2 versus 5.3 ± 6.5; P = .44; d = 0.24). Classification accuracy and area under the curve (AUC) values were highest for the clinical drop stick (85.1% accuracy, AUC = 0.86, P < .001) and dual-task Stroop (87.2% accuracy, AUC = 0.92, P < .002) RT variables at initial evaluation. CONCLUSIONS Adolescents recovering from concussion may have initial RT deficits that persist despite symptom recovery. The clinical drop stick and dual-task Stroop RT measures demonstrated high clinical utility given high classification accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity to detect postconcussion RT deficits and may be considered for initial and RTP assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Barnes
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora
| | - Katherine Smulligan
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora
- Departments of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | - Mathew J Wingerson
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora
- Departments of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | - Casey Little
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora
- Departments of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | - Vipul Lugade
- Division of Physical Therapy, Binghamton University, NY
- Control One LLC, Atlanta, GA
| | - Julie C Wilson
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora
- Departments of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | - David R Howell
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora
- Departments of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
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Howell DR, Wingerson MJ, Smulligan KL, Magliato S, Simon S, Wilson JC. Exercising More Than 150 min/wk After Concussion Is Associated With Sleep Quality Improvements. J Head Trauma Rehabil 2023:00001199-990000000-00124. [PMID: 38032838 DOI: 10.1097/htr.0000000000000918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine whether a high volume of aerobic exercise after concussion (>150 min/wk) is associated with improved sleep quality over a 1-month period. We hypothesized that more than 150 min/wk of exercise would be associated with improved sleep quality across concussion recovery. DESIGN Prospective cohort observational study. SETTING Sports medicine clinic. PARTICIPANTS Adolescents initially tested 8.4 ± 3.5 (range, 2-18) days postconcussion who returned for a follow-up assessment 34.3 ± 7.7 (range: 20-49) days postconcussion. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Participants completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory. No specific exercise or sleep recommendations were given beyond what their treating physician provided. Between study visits, participants recorded exercise performed via wrist-worn actigraphy. We calculated average exercise minutes per week and grouped participants as those who exercised more than 150 min/wk versus those who exercised 150 min/wk or less. RESULTS Thirty-six adolescents participated. Fifteen (42%) recorded more than 150 min/wk of aerobic exercise (age = 14.0 ± 1.7 years; 47% female; mean = 5.6 ± 1.2 d/wk of exercise; mean = 49.2 ± 17.5 min/session), and 21 recorded 150 min/wk or less of aerobic exercise (age = 15.0 ± 1.9 years; 76% female; mean = 2.7 ± 1.6 d/wk of exercise; mean = 30.2 ± 7.8 min/session). There were no significant group differences in the proportion of those who self-reported beginning physical activity prior to enrollment (47% vs 33%; P = .42) or for initial sleep quality rating (8.0 ± 3.7 vs 8.6 ± 4.1; P = .67) or initial concussion symptom severity rating (34.9 ± 28.0 vs 42.6 ± 25.9; P = .40). The group that exercised more than 150 min/wk between visits demonstrated significantly greater median PSQI rating improvements than those who exercised 150 min/wk or less, with a large effect size noted (median change [interquartile range] = 5 [3, 7] vs 1 [0, 4]; P = .008; Cohen d = 0.96). CONCLUSION Current recommendations suggest that subsymptom aerobic exercise can be beneficial after concussion. Our findings indicate that an exercise volume of more than 150 min/wk led to greater sleep quality improvements than those who exercised below this level.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Howell
- Sports Medicine Center (Drs Howell and Wilson, Mr Wingerson, and Ms Magliato) and Pediatric Sleep Center (Dr Simon), Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora; and Departments of Orthopedics (Drs Howell, Smulligan, and Wilson, Mr Wingerson, and Ms Magliato) and Pediatrics (Drs Simon and Wilson), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
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Wingerson MJ, Baugh CM, Provance AJ, Armento A, Walker GA, Howell DR. Changes in Quality of Life, Sleep, and Physical Activity During COVID-19: A Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Athletes. J Athl Train 2023; 58:887-894. [PMID: 36827615 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0529.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The abrupt cessation of school and sport participation during the COVID-19 pandemic may have negative implications for adolescent mental health. OBJECTIVES To (1) compare mental, physical, and social health and behaviors during pandemic-related stay-at-home mandates with the same measures collected 1 to 2 years earlier and (2) evaluate the relationships between physical activity and sleep during the pandemic and changes in anxiety, fatigue, and peer relationships between assessment times. DESIGN Cohort study. SETTING Pediatric sports medicine center. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS A total of 39 high school athletes (25 adolescent girls, 14 adolescent boys; age = 16.2 ± 0.9 years). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement System anxiety, fatigue, and peer relationships short forms and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index were completed twice (initial assessment in May 2018 or 2019, follow-up assessment in May or June 2020). Frequency and duration of physical activity and frequency of interaction with other individuals (family, peers, sport coaches, etc) were self-reported at follow-up assessment for the 2 weeks before school or sport closure and the 2 weeks before questionnaire completion. RESULTS Higher levels of anxiety (5.5 ± 4.0 versus 3.6 ± 3.4 points; P = .003) and fatigue (5.4 ± 3.7 versus 2.3 ± 2.5 points; P < .001) and worse sleep quality (6.6 ± 2.9 versus 4.3 ± 2.3 points; P < .001) were observed during the pandemic compared with previous assessments. Reductions in physical activity were noted between assessments (exercise duration: 86.4 ± 41.0 versus 53.8 ± 30.0 minutes; P < .001). Sleep quality but not physical activity during the pandemic predicted changes in fatigue (P = .03, β = 0.44 [95% CI = 0.06, 0.83]) and peer relationships (P = .01, β = -0.65 [95% CI = -1.16, -0.15]) from initial to follow-up assessment. CONCLUSIONS Mental and physical health declined during stay-at-home mandates compared with assessments 1 to 2 years earlier. Physical activity behaviors and sources of social interaction underwent changes after school and sport cessation. Sleep quality may have provided some protection against declining adolescent mental health during the pandemic, although this relationship requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew J Wingerson
- Department of Orthopedics, Center for Bioethics and Humanities, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | - Christine M Baugh
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Center for Bioethics and Humanities, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | - Aaron J Provance
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City
| | - Aubrey Armento
- Department of Orthopedics, Center for Bioethics and Humanities, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora
| | - Gregory A Walker
- Department of Orthopedics, Center for Bioethics and Humanities, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora
| | - David R Howell
- Department of Orthopedics, Center for Bioethics and Humanities, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora
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Neely LM, Smulligan KL, Wingerson MJ, Seehusen CN, Simon SL, Wilson JC, Howell DR. The association between sleep and physical activity with persisting postconcussion symptoms among adolescent athletes. PM R 2023; 15:1122-1129. [PMID: 36580488 PMCID: PMC10875599 DOI: 10.1002/pmrj.12939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Both sleep duration and physical activity following concussion may influence subsequent recovery. Objective measurement of sleep and physical activity behavior via wearable technology may provide insights into their association with concussion recovery. OBJECTIVE To determine whether sleep behavior (eg, duration, timing) and/or physical activity (steps/day, or exercise frequency, duration, intensity) in the first month after adolescent sports-related concussion are associated with developing persisting postconcussion symptoms (PPCS). DESIGN Case-control. SETTING Outpatient sports medicine clinic. PARTICIPANTS The study prospectively enrolled adolescent athletes who sustained a concussion (N = 49, age = 14.8 ± 1.8 years; 51% female) who were evaluated within 14 days of concussion (mean = 6.7 ± 2.7 days) and followed uvia sleep/physical activity monitoring for the subsequent 2 weeks. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Participants wore a monitor to track sleep (sleep time, wake time, and time spent awake in bed at night) and physical activity (average steps/day, exercise frequency, exercise duration) behavior for 2 weeks after initial assessment. Participants were followed until symptom resolution, and the main outcome of interest was development of PPCS (symptom duration >28 days). A multivariable logistic regression model was used to examine associations between physical activity and sleep behavior with PPCS. RESULTS Of the 49 participants, 47% (n = 23, mean symptom resolution = 57 ± 23 days post injury) developed PPCS and 53% (n = 26, mean symptom resolution = 15 ± 7 days post injury) did not. Univariable analysis showed that the PPCS group took fewer steps/day (7526 ± 2975 vs. 9803 ± 3786 steps/day; p = .02), exercised less frequently (2.5 ± 2.2 vs. 4.4 ± 2.1 days/week; p = .005), and spent more time in bed awake (1.2 ± 0.3 vs. 0.8 ± 0.3 h/night; p = .03) than the no PPCS group. Multivariable results indicated the odds of developing PPCS significantly increased with fewer exercise session/week (adjusted odds ratio = 1.96, 95% confidence interval = 1.09, 3.51, p = .024). CONCLUSIONS More exercise sessions that were longer than 15 minutes during concussion recovery was associated with a lower risk of developing PPCS, whereas sleep and other physical activity measures were not. Further studies regarding exercise duration and intensity are needed. Clinicians may consider advising patients to optimize sleep and physical activity during concussion recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda M Neely
- Modern Human Anatomy Program, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Katherine L Smulligan
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Mathew J Wingerson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Corrine N Seehusen
- University of New England School of Osteopathic Medicine, Biddeford, ME, USA
| | - Stacey L Simon
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Pediatric Sleep Center, Children’s Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Julie C Wilson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - David R Howell
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
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Rademacher JG, Wingerson MJ, Smulligan KL, Little CC, Wilson JC, Howell DR. Early Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity After Concussion Is Associated With Faster Symptom Resolution Time. J Sport Rehabil 2023; 32:790-796. [PMID: 37295788 DOI: 10.1123/jsr.2023-0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Early physical activity (PA) after concussion may promote symptom resolution. Prior studies have investigated exercise frequency/duration, yet precise PA intensity or volume required for optimal recovery requires further investigation. moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) is beneficial for physical health. We investigated whether sedentary time, light activity time, MVPA time, or activity frequency in the weeks following concussion are associated with time to symptom resolution among adolescents. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. METHODS Adolescents 10-18 years of age were tested ≤14 days of concussion and followed until symptom resolution. At the initial visit, participants rated symptom severity and were provided wrist-worn activity trackers to monitor PA for the following week. PA behavior was categorized each day based on heart rate: sedentary (resting), light PA (50%-69% age-predicted max heart rate), and MVPA (70%-100% age-predicted max heart rate). Symptom resolution was defined as the date when participants reported cessation of concussion-like symptoms. Patients were not given specific PA instructions, though some may have received instructions from their physician. RESULTS Fifty-four participants were included in the study (54% female; mean age = 15.0 [1.8] y; initially assessed 7.5 [3.2] d after concussion). Female athletes recorded more sedentary time (900 [46] vs 738 [185] min/d; P = .01; Cohen d = 0.72), and less time in light PA (194.7 [64.5] vs 224 [55] min/d; P = .08; Cohen d = 0.48) and MVPA (23 [17] vs 38 [31] min/d; P = .04; Cohen d = 0.58) than male athletes. After adjusting for sedentary time, hours per day with >250 steps, sex, and initial symptom severity, more MVPA time was associated with faster symptom resolution time (hazard ratio = 1.016; 95% confidence interval, 1.001-1.032; P = .04). CONCLUSION Our findings offer preliminary insight into how varying PA intensities affect concussion recovery, as MVPA may be a higher intensity than what is typically prescribed in concussion care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mathew J Wingerson
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO,USA
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO,USA
| | - Katherine L Smulligan
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO,USA
| | - Casey C Little
- University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA,USA
| | - Julie C Wilson
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO,USA
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO,USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO,USA
| | - David R Howell
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO,USA
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO,USA
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Wingerson MJ, Magliato SN, Smulligan KL, Wilson JC, Little CC, Howell DR. Predicting Time to Evaluation After Pediatric Concussion: Factors Affecting Specialty Concussion Care. Orthop J Sports Med 2023; 11:23259671231186430. [PMID: 37655238 PMCID: PMC10467397 DOI: 10.1177/23259671231186430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The timing of clinical evaluation after pediatric concussion represents an important and potentially modifiable clinical milestone for diagnosis, selection of appropriate treatment pathways, and recovery prognosis. Patient demographics, socioeconomic status, or medical history may affect the time to the initial evaluation and subsequently influence recovery outcomes. Purpose/Hypothesis The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the association of patient characteristics with the time to specialty evaluation after a concussion. It was hypothesized that patients with a history of concussion, a preexisting relationship with our specialty concussion program, or a higher ZIP code-based income estimate would present for care more quickly after a concussion than patients without these characteristics. Study Design Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods Included were patients with a concussion between 6 and 18 years old who were seen for care at a single sports medicine center between January 1 and December 31, 2019. Patient demographic, socioeconomic, injury, and clinical characteristics were collected through a retrospective review of the medical records. The primary outcome was the number of days between the date of the concussion and the patient's initial specialty evaluation. Results Overall, 220 patients (mean age, 14.4 ± 2.5 years; 46% female) were seen for care at a mean of 9.7 ± 5.6 days (range, 1-21 days) after concussion. A shorter time to specialty evaluation was associated with a history of concussion (β = -1.72 [95% CI, -3.24 to -0.20]; P = .03) and a prior clinical relationship with the treating clinical department (β = -1.85 [95% CI, -3.52 to -0.19]; P = .03). Referral by a primary care provider was associated with a longer time to evaluation (β = 3.86 [95% CI, 2.39-5.33]; P < .0001). Conclusion A history of concussion and having a preexisting clinical relationship with the deparment were associated with a shorter time to evaluation after concussion. Referral from a primary care physician was associated with a longer time to evaluation. Issues may exist in the propensity to access care after an injury, resulting in delays for initiating early treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew J. Wingerson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Samantha N. Magliato
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Katherine L. Smulligan
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Julie C. Wilson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Casey C. Little
- Sports Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - David R. Howell
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Schmitz B, Smulligan KL, Wingerson MJ, Walker GA, Wilson JC, Howell DR. Double Vision and Light Sensitivity Symptoms are Associated With Return-to-School Timing After Pediatric Concussion. Clin J Sport Med 2023; 33:264-269. [PMID: 36395518 DOI: 10.1097/jsm.0000000000001106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the association between academic time loss postconcussion and vision symptoms/impairments among pediatric patients. DESIGN Cross-sectional. SETTING Sports medicine clinic. PATIENTS Pediatric patients seen for care in a sports medicine clinic between the ages 6 and 18 years (n = 212; mean age = 14.3, SD = 2.4 years; 48% female) were evaluated within 21 days of concussion (mean = 9.8, SD = 5.7 days). INDEPENDENT VARIABLE Patients were grouped based on academic time loss (missed >5 days vs ≤5 days of school) at their initial postconcussion evaluation. OUTCOME MEASURES Patients rated concussion symptoms using the Health and Behavior Inventory (HBI) and underwent near point of convergence (NPC) testing. We compared groups on specific HBI symptom ratings of dizziness, blurry vision, seeing double, and light sensitivity, as well as NPC break and recovery point distances. RESULTS Two hundred twelve patients were included; n = 36 (17%) who reported missing >5 days of school. After adjusting for time since injury, parental education level, mechanism of injury, and preinjury anxiety, patients who reported missing >5 days of school had higher ratings of double vision (β = 0.27; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.01-0.53; P = 0.04) and light sensitivity (β = 0.506; 95% CI, 0.061-0.951; P = 0.02), but not dizziness (β = 0.390; 95% CI, -0.047 to 0.827; P = 0.08) or blurry vision (β = 0.026; 95% CI, -0.352 to 0.404; P = 0.89). CONCLUSION Missing >5 days of school was associated with worse double vision and light sensitivity symptoms. Given the importance of vision in learning, assessing postconcussion vision symptoms may facilitate a successful return to school. Clinicians should assess a wide spectrum of vision-specific symptoms to ensure appropriate support during the return-to-school process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baylie Schmitz
- Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program, Northern Arizona University, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Katherine L Smulligan
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Mathew J Wingerson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Gregory A Walker
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Julie C Wilson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Colorado
| | - David R Howell
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
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Magliato SN, Wingerson MJ, Seehusen CN, Smulligan KL, Simon SL, Wilson JC, Howell DR. Sleep Problems After Concussion Are Associated With Poor Balance and Persistent Postconcussion Symptoms. J Child Neurol 2023; 38:198-205. [PMID: 37122172 DOI: 10.1177/08830738231170721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
We examined the association of self-reported sleep problems with clinical measures of postural stability, memory performance, symptom burden, and symptom duration following youth concussion. Patients 6-18 years of age presenting ≤21 days postconcussion underwent a clinical evaluation including modified Balance Error Scoring System, single- and dual-task tandem gait, immediate and delayed recall, and symptom severity. We calculated time from injury until symptom resolution and determined the proportion of patients who developed persistent postconcussion symptoms, defined as a symptom duration >28 days postconcussion. We grouped patients based on whether they reported sleep problems at their postconcussion clinical evaluation and compared symptom-based and functional outcomes between groups. Of the 207 patients included, n = 97 (14.3 ± 2.9 years; 49% female; initial visit 10.2 ± 5.8 days postconcussion) reported sleep problems postconcussion and n = 110 (14.3 ± 2.4 years; 46% female; initial visit 9.3 ± 5.4 days postinjury) did not. Those reporting sleep problems postconcussion had significantly more modified Balance Error Scoring System errors than those without (8.4 ± 5.5 vs 6.7 ± 4.7; P = .01), but similar tandem gait and memory performance. A significantly greater proportion of those who reported sleep problems postconcussion experienced persistent postconcussion symptoms than those who did not (53% vs 31%; P = .004). After adjusting for time from concussion to clinical visit and preconcussion sleep problems, postconcussion sleep problems were associated with a 2 times greater odds of developing persistent postconcussion symptoms (adjusted odds ratio = 2.02, 95% CI = 1.01, 4.06; P = .049). Identifying sleep problems early following concussion may allow clinicians to implement targeted treatment recommendations to improve sleep and provide an optimal recovery environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha N Magliato
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Mathew J Wingerson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Corrine N Seehusen
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Katherine L Smulligan
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Stacey L Simon
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Pediatric Sleep Center, Children's Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Julie C Wilson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - David R Howell
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
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Smulligan KL, Wingerson MJ, Little CC, Wilson JC, Howell DR. Early physical activity after concussion is associated with sleep quality but not dizziness among adolescent athletes. J Sci Med Sport 2023; 26:183-188. [PMID: 36804710 PMCID: PMC10106390 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2023.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the association between early physical activity and post-concussion sleep quality, dizziness, and postural stability among adolescents with concussion compared to uninjured controls. DESIGN Cross-sectional. METHODS Adolescents ages 13-18 years assessed within 14 days post-concussion and uninjured controls. Those with concussion reported if they participated in physical activity between the concussion and assessment. Participants completed the Dizziness Handicap Inventory, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and single/dual-task tandem gait. RESULTS We enrolled 34 participants with concussion (early physical activity: n = 10, age = 15.8 ± 1.6 years, 70% female; no physical activity: n = 24, age = 16.0 ± 1.3 years, 50% female) and 21 uninjured controls (age = 16.0 ± 1.8 years, 48% female). Compared to controls, the no physical activity group reported worse sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index: 3.8 ± 2.7 vs 8.0 ± 4.9 points, p = 0.002) and single-task tandem gait time (13.7 ± 3.4 vs 21.2 ± 8.1 s, p = 0.0006), while the early physical activity group did not (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index: 3.8 ± 2.7 vs 5.8 ± 3.2 points, p = 0.38; single-task tandem gait: 13.7 ± 3.4 vs 19.0 ± 5.7 s, p = 0.08). Compared to controls, early/no physical activity groups reported worse dizziness (Dizziness Handicap Inventory: 2.0 ± 3.4 vs 22.9 ± 23.8 vs 27.4 ± 19.2 points, p < 0.0001). There were no significant between-group differences for dual-task tandem gait (24.1 ± 8.0 vs 24.8 ± 6.2 vs 26.6 ± 7.3 s, p = 0.57). CONCLUSIONS The no physical activity group reported worse sleep quality and slower single-task tandem gait than controls, while both groups reported similar sleep quality and tandem gait. Early physical activity may promote sleep quality and postural stability, or early physical activity may be a function of improved sleep and postural stability after concussion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mathew J Wingerson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, USA; Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Colorado, USA
| | - Casey C Little
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Colorado, USA
| | - Julie C Wilson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, USA; Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Colorado, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, USA
| | - David R Howell
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, USA; Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Colorado, USA.
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Wingerson MJ, Wilson JC, Seehusen CN, Walker GA, Howell DR. Patient Characteristics Predictive of Immediate and Delayed Word Recall Performance Following Adolescent Concussion. Int J Sports Med 2023; 44:72-77. [PMID: 36096148 DOI: 10.1055/a-1941-5673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Clinicians rely on objective concussion assessments that may be influenced by patient characteristics, creating difficulties in isolating the effect of concussion on patient function. The purpose of our study was to identify characteristics associated with performance on the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 5th edition (SCAT5) 10-word recall test following adolescent concussion. We evaluated patients seen for care within 14 days of concussion (n=125; 15.2±1.6 years of age, range=11-18 years; 46% female; 6.9±3.4 days post-concussion). Patient demographic (age, sex, medical and concussion history, etc.), injury (timing of presentation, symptom severity, sport-type, etc.), and clinical test (Modified Balance Error Scoring System [mBESS], tandem gait) characteristics were assessed, in addition to SCAT5 immediate and delayed memory testing using the 10-word recall list. Immediate and delayed recall performance was significantly associated with concussion symptom burden and cognitive accuracy during tandem gait, although effect sizes were notably small. Specific variables such as age, sex, diagnosis of ADD/ADHD, and performance on other clinical assessments were not significantly associated with recall performance after controlling for covariates. Further, the 10-word recall list demonstrates specific advantages over previously used 5-word lists by way of decreased ceiling effects and reduced interference of inherent patient characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew J Wingerson
- Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora, United States
| | - Julie C Wilson
- Orthopedics, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, United States
- Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora, United States
| | - Corrine N Seehusen
- Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora, United States
| | - Gregory A Walker
- Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora, United States
| | - David R Howell
- Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora, United States
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Wingerson MJ, Smulligan KL, Wilson JC, Walker G, Howell DR. Sociodemographic And Injury Characteristics Predictive Of Time To Presentation At A Specialty Clinic After Concussion. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2022. [DOI: 10.1249/01.mss.0000875828.44522.e5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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15
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Smulligan KL, Wingerson MJ, Seehusen CN, Wilson JC, Howell DR. Postconcussion Dizziness Severity Predicts Daily Step Count during Recovery among Adolescent Athletes. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2022; 54:905-911. [PMID: 35081096 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Physical activity (PA) after concussion is an important aspect of appropriate clinical management. However, symptoms or functional deficits may reduce patient propensity toward PA, thereby negatively affecting recovery. Our purpose was to examine whether postconcussion dizziness, total symptom severity, or postural stability predicts PA level in the 2 wk after initial evaluation. METHODS We evaluated adolescent athletes within 14 d of concussion on assessments of symptoms, dizziness, and postural stability. Athletes were provided an activity monitor to track PA for 2 wk after the evaluation. Our primary outcome was step count (mean steps per day). Potential predictor variables included sex, Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory (PCSI) total symptom severity, individual PCSI ratings of dizziness and balance impairment, and postural stability assessments (single- and dual-task tandem gait, modified Balance Error Scoring System). To examine predictors of PA, we calculated correlation coefficients between steps per day and each potential predictor and included significantly correlated variables in a multivariable regression model. RESULTS Participants were ages 12-18 yr (n = 35, 15.2 ± 1.7 yr, 49% female) and initially evaluated 7.3 ± 3.0 d after concussion. Upon univariable evaluation, PCSI dizziness rating (Pearson R = -0.49, P = 0.003) and sex (mean difference, 2449 steps per day; P = 0.05) were associated with steps per day. Within the multivariable regression analysis, PCSI dizziness rating (β = -1035; 95% confidence interval, -191 to -1880; P = 0.018), but not sex, predicted average steps per day in the 2 wk after initial evaluation. CONCLUSIONS Self-reported dizziness, but not overall symptom severity or postural stability, assessed within 14 d of concussion predicted daily step count in the subsequent 2 wk. Given the importance of PA for concussion recovery, treating acute postconcussion dizziness can potentially reduce a barrier to PA and improve recovery trajectories.
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Neely L, Smulligan KL, Wingerson MJ, Seehusen C, Simon S, Wilson JC, Howell DR. Evaluating the Association of Sleep & Physical activity with Prolonged Concussion Symptoms. FASEB J 2022. [DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.2022.36.s1.r3687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Neely
- Modern Human Anatomy ProgramUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
| | - Katherine L. Smulligan
- OrthopedicsUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
- Sports Medicine CenterUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
| | - Mathew J. Wingerson
- OrthopedicsUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
- Sports Medicine CenterUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
| | - Corrine Seehusen
- University of New England School of Osteopathic MedicineBiddefordME
| | - Stacey Simon
- PediatricsUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
- Pediatric Sleep CenterUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
| | - Julie C. Wilson
- OrthopedicsUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
- Sports Medicine CenterUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
- PediatricsUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
| | - David R. Howell
- OrthopedicsUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
- Sports Medicine CenterUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraCO
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Howell DR, Wingerson MJ, Kirkwood MW, Grubenhoff JA, Wilson JC. Early aerobic exercise among adolescents at moderate/high risk for persistent post-concussion symptoms: A pilot randomized clinical trial. Phys Ther Sport 2022; 55:196-204. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2022.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Smulligan KL, Wilson JC, Seehusen CN, Wingerson MJ, Magliato SN, Howell DR. Post-Concussion Dizziness, Sleep Quality, and Postural Instability: A Cross-Sectional Investigation. J Athl Train 2021; 57:471610. [PMID: 34623439 PMCID: PMC9875698 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0470.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Dizziness, postural instability, and poor sleep quality are all commonly reported post-concussion and individually relate to poor outcomes. OBJECTIVE To examine sleep quality and postural stability among adolescents who did and did not report dizziness within two weeks of concussion. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Research laboratory. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS Participants ages 12-18 years within 14 days of concussion (n=58, 15.2±1.8 years; 50% female; 7.1±3.1 days post-injury) and uninjured controls (n=73; 15.8±1.3 years; 42% female). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Participants completed pre-injury and current dizziness ratings on the Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory (PCSI) and current sleep quality on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Participants also completed postural stability assessments (single/dual-task tandem gait and modified Balance Error Scoring System [mBESS]). RESULTS We grouped concussion patients into dizzy (n=21) or not dizzy (n=37) groups based on PCSI dizziness ratings: difference between current and pre-injury dizziness rating >3=dizzy; difference <3=not dizzy. The dizzy and not dizzy groups both reported significantly worse sleep quality than the control group (PSQI score: mean=9.6±3.7 vs 7.2±3.5 vs 4.3±2.6; p<0.001) upon univariable comparison. Similarly, the dizzy group performed slowest on single and dual-task tandem gait, followed by the not dizzy group, then the control group (single-task TG: mean= 27.2±11.7 sec vs 21.2±6.3 vs 14.7±3.6; p<0.001); (dual-task TG: mean=38.4±16.2 sec vs 29.9±7.2 vs 21.6±7.5; p<0.001). Both concussion groups demonstrated significantly more errors than the control group on the mBESS (mean=9.8±5.1 vs 6.9±5.8 vs 3.8±3.5; p<0.001). After controlling for total symptom severity in the multivariable model, tandem gait, but not mBESS or sleep quality, was associated with dizziness. CONCLUSION Individuals with post-concussion dizziness also demonstrated impaired tandem gait performance, while poor sleep quality was associated with total symptom severity. Identifying and treating the underlying dysfunction contributing to dizziness and postural instability may guide individualized rehabilitation strategies and facilitate recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julie C. Wilson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | | | | | | | - David R. Howell
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora
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Smulligan KL, Wingerson MJ, Seehusen CN, Magliato SN, Wilson JC, Howell DR. Patient perception of dizziness and imbalance does not correlate with gait measures in adolescent athletes post-concussion. Gait Posture 2021; 90:289-294. [PMID: 34564000 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2021.09.184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dizziness and gait impairments are commonly observed following a concussion, and both are associated with prolonged concussion recovery. RESEARCH QUESTION Is there a correlation between combined self-reported dizziness and balance impairment severity with objective gait impairments after concussion? METHODS Participants (n = 51; 15.4 ± 1.6 years; 51 % female; 7.3 ± 3.2 days post-injury) age 12-18 years self-reported ratings of dizziness and balance impairment using the Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory (PCSI) within 14 days of injury. Individual ratings of dizziness, balance impairment, and moving clumsily on the PCSI were combined to create a comprehensive dizziness and imbalance score. Participants also completed a smartphone-based gait evaluation under single-task and dual-task conditions. Correlation coefficients (Pearson r for normally distributed and Spearman rho for non-normally distributed variables) were calculated between self-reported symptoms and single and dual-task spatiotemporal gait parameters, specifically step velocity, step time, and step length. RESULTS Correlation coefficients indicated that there was low to no correlation between self-reported dizziness and imbalance impairment severity and smartphone-obtained gait parameters under single- or dual-task conditions, including step velocity (single-task: r=-0.22, p = 0.13; dual-task: r=-0.05, p = 0.72), step time (single-task: rho = 0.16, p = 0.27; dual-task: rho = 0.14, p = 0.33), and step length (single-task: r=-0.15, p = 0.30; dual-task: r = 0.03, p = 0.84). SIGNIFICANCE Self-reported dizziness and balance impairment severity within the first two weeks of concussion may not reflect objectively measured gait performance, given the lack of association between subjective symptom ratings and functional measures. Further, smartphone collected gait parameters may not provide the necessary sensitivity to detect an association with dizziness. The lack of significant correlation between self-reported symptoms and objective gait performance highlights the importance of using both objective and subjective measures to obtain a more complete picture of concussion deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine L Smulligan
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Mathew J Wingerson
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Corrine N Seehusen
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Samantha N Magliato
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Julie C Wilson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA; Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - David R Howell
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA; Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.
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Krainin BM, Seehusen CN, Smulligan KL, Wingerson MJ, Wilson JC, Howell DR. Symptom and clinical recovery outcomes for pediatric concussion following early physical activity. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2021:1-8. [PMID: 34560641 DOI: 10.3171/2021.6.peds21264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recent research supports initiating physical activity as soon as 24 to 48 hours after concussion to reduce persistent postconcussive symptoms. However, this practice has not been widely adopted. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association of early physical activity with patient-reported and functional outcomes for pediatric patients following a concussion. METHODS A retrospective cohort of patients who presented to a pediatric sports medicine clinic (48% female, mean age14.3 ± 2.6 years, and mean 9.8 ± 5.7 days postconcussion) were evaluated. Patients were grouped based on whether they reported engaging in physical activity prior to presenting to the clinic. Patient- and parent-reported symptom frequency (Health and Behavior Inventory), 11 different clinical outcomes (including missed school, memory recall, and balance assessments), the presence of symptoms persisting beyond 28 days, and a subgroup analysis of those patients receiving exercise versus symptom-limiting activity prescriptions were examined. Outcomes were compared between physical activity groups using the Mann-Whitney U-test and the chi-square test. To adjust for the effect of potential confounders, a logistic binary regression model was constructed. RESULTS In total, 211 pediatric patients were included, 35 (17%) of whom reported early physical activity. A greater proportion of the no physical activity group reported a headache (85% vs 60%, p = 0.001). The no physical activity group also reported higher patient-reported (23.1 ± 13.4 vs 15.0 ± 13.4, p < 0.001) and parent-reported (19.4 ± 12.7 vs 11.2 ± 10.3, p = 0.001) symptom frequency at the initial visit. The early physical activity group had a lower proportion of patients with persistent symptoms (44% vs 22%, p = 0.02) and a shorter time to symptom resolution (15.6 ± 12.4 days vs 27.2 ± 24.2 days, p = 0.02). After adjusting for potential confounders, early physical activity was associated with 5.8 lower odds of experiencing persistent symptoms (adjusted OR 5.83, 95% CI 2.05-16.61; p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS A significant association between early physical activity and decreased symptom burden was observed. A lower proportion of those patients who engaged in early physical activity experienced persistent symptoms 28 days postinjury. However, low rates of early physical activity prior to the initial clinic visit were also observed, indicating that this approach may not be well known by acute care or primary care providers, or is not widely adopted by patients and families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin M Krainin
- 1Department of Family Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora.,2Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | | | | | - Mathew J Wingerson
- 3Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora.,4Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora; and
| | - Julie C Wilson
- 3Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora.,4Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora; and.,5Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - David R Howell
- 3Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora.,4Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora; and
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Wingerson MJ, Seehusen CN, Walker G, Wilson JC, Howell DR. Clinical feasibility and utility of a dual-task tandem gait protocol for pediatric concussion management. J Athl Train 2020; 58:446986. [PMID: 33150416 PMCID: PMC10072090 DOI: 10.4085/323-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Clinical management of sport-related concussion requires the assessment of various factors, including motor performance. The tandem gait test, a measure of post-injury motor performance, has demonstrated clinical utility, but is limited by time availability and test uniformity. OBJECTIVE To assess intrasession reliability between tandem gait test trials and determine the number trials necessary for optimal utility and feasibility in clinical decision-making following concussion. DESIGN Cross-Sectional Study Setting: Pediatric Sport Medicine Clinic Participants: Adolescent athletes who recently sustained a concussion (n=44; age=15.4±1.8 years; 39% female) and were seen for care within 14 days (7.3±3.2 days) of their injury, as well as uninjured control participants (n=73; age=15.8±1.3 years; 41% female). All participants completed three single-task and three dual-task tandem gait trials. OUTCOME MEASURES We collected test completion time and cognitive performance for each trial and calculated Pearson correlation coefficients between trials and Intraclass Correlation Coefficients to determine intrasession reliability. We also compared performance between groups, and calculated area under the curve (AUC) values to identify the ability of each trial to distinguish between groups. RESULTS Both the concussion and control group demonstrated high intrasession reliability between tandem gait trials under single (R ≥ 0.82; ICC≥ 0.93) and dual-task conditions (R ≥ 0.79; ICC≥ 0.92). The greatest group classification values were obtained from the second single-task trial (AUC = 0.89) and first dual-task trial (AUC = 0.83). Test completion time provided excellent between-group discrimination in single-task and dual-task conditions. However, cognitive performance during dual-task trials demonstrated only marginally significant clinical utility (AUC ≤ 0.67). CONCLUSION Tandem gait assessments may only require two trials under single-task and one trial under dual-task conditions to effectively discriminate between concussion and control groups. This approach may improve the feasibility (time requirement) of the test, while maintaining excellent discriminatory ability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gregory Walker
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora
- Department of
Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | - Julie C. Wilson
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora
- Department of
Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
- Department of
Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | - David R. Howell
- Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora
- Department of
Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
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