Concussion Symptoms Scale and the Association with Temperature, Equipment, and Play Duration in Non-Concussed Football Players

BACKGROUND: Symptom scales are routinely used in sport during concussion screening and return-to-play. Limited research has explored the presence of concussion symptoms in the absence of a diagnosed concussion. This study analyzed concussion symptom scores in concussed vs. non-concussed football players after football activities and evaluated the effect of field of play variables. METHODS: = 30) diagnosed concussion completed concussion symptom scales (C3 Logix) following practice for 1 week. Wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT), play duration, equipment, and location (inside/outside) were recorded. Mixed models analyzed the effect of day, WBGT, equipment, location, and play duration on concussion-like symptoms in non-concussed players and determined the time course of symptom relief in concussed players. RESULTS: = 0.83) was found. Symptom scores were greater in the concussed vs. non-concussed groups on days 1-3. CONCLUSIONS: Football players report concussion-like symptoms in the absence of a concussion diagnosis, particularly following the first few practices after a game.