A - 05 Efficacy of a Short-term Integrated Care Approach to Persistent Problems After Concussion

Abstract Purpose Persistent symptoms after concussion affect up to 30% of the population. With no clear medical direction, these symptoms cause significant distress and substantially influence daily life. Multiple pre-injury and post-injury factors have been associated with symptoms persisting. Therefore, individualized, transdisciplinary treatment is necessary to assist athletes in returning to their lives. This case study highlights the benefits of an integrated treatment approach in facilitating return to play and daily activities for an athlete with persisting symptoms after concussion. Method Mr. R is a 20-year-old male college student and baseball player who was rear-ended in a MVA 3 months prior. Primary concerns included headache, neck pain, fatigue, light and noise sensitivity, dysautonomia, exercise intolerance, and mood concerns. Relevant medical history included concussion in 2022, low back pain, right shoulder pain, and headache. Mr. R participated in an 8-week program involving physical therapy, occupational therapy, and neuropsychological treatment to address cervical and bodily impairments, autonomic functioning, lifestyle factors, motor control, sensory processing, and psychosocial factors. Results Upon termination, Mr. R demonstrated significant improvements in all goals and outcomes. His Patient Specific Functional Scale increased from 1 to 68, and his Concussion Profile Screen dropped from 35 to 3. The player was able to return to university baseball. Conclusions It is important to address the multiple underlying contributing factors to persisting problems after concussion. An integrated team approach is vital to address these factors and assist people with persisting symptoms in returning to daily activities.