Concussion risk in high school athletes.

Abstract

A 2 x 2 factorial design was used to explore group differences on the three dependent measures. A MANOVA found a significant interaction between the two independent variables on the reaction time test. It also identified a main effect for both neurological condition and concussion history on the reaction time test, and a main effect for neurological condition on the sideline assessment of concussion. In this sample, evidence of systematic outcomes for those with Learning Disabilities and Attention Deficit Disorders, as well as those with a history of previous concussion, is congruent with previous research and supports the need for preseason baseline testing for this special population so as to maximize the validity of the pre- and post-concussion assessment. Applications for use and implications for further research are discussed.

This study explores the relationships between premorbid neurological conditions (i.e. Learning Disabilities and Attention Deficit Disorders) and concussion history in 106 adolescent male athletes on three outcome measures: a standardized assessment of concussion, a reaction time test, and an information processing task. In this group, the reported incidence of at least one concussion over the course of their lifetime was 67%.