Analyzing sports-related concussions and traumatic brain injuries and their effects on adolescents and athletes

In this paper, the current literature focused on concussions and traumatic brain injuries is comprehensively examined and reviewed, with a particular emphasis on the impact of these injuries on adolescents and athletes. Symptoms, including cognitive impairment, headaches, and nausea, frequently associated with concussions and traumatic brain injuries are reviewed while underlying biomechanical and neurological mechanisms that contribute to these injuries are also examined with additional focus on the possible effects of multiple subconcussive impacts on brain structure and function. The concussion and traumatic brain injury diagnosis process is discussed, including an examination of the emerging literature surrounding traumatic brain injuries diagnosed with the use of miRNA biomarkers in saliva samples. Additionally, the frequency and prevalence of concussions in youth and athletic populations is investigated, highlighting both sport-specific risks and gender-based differences. Various prevention strategies are discussed including sport-specific rule changes, education-based interventions, shock-absorption and impact reduction helmet technology, and the use of baseline testing for diagnoses. Special attention is given to the emerging field of head and neck strengthening as a potential method for reducing concussion risk. The possible future development of a pre-activity sports drink designed to prime the brain of an athlete prior to a competition or practice is proposed. Critical gaps in the existing research literature are identified and areas for future study are identified, particularly in regard to the development of personalized prevention programs and improved understanding of underlying processes.