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A comprehensive, targeted approach to the clinical care of athletes following sport-related concussion

  • Sports Medicine
  • Published:
Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy Aims and scope

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss risk and prognostic factors for concussion outcomes, review comprehensive approaches to assessment, and describe a new method for conceptualizing treatment for sport-related concussion using clinical experience.

Methods

Based on the current literature of sport-related concussion and clinical experience, an approach for conceptualizing concussion care using clinical trajectories and targeted treatments was developed.

Results

A comprehensive approach to assessment and targeted treatments for sport-related concussion was developed using specific clinical trajectories.

Conclusion

Sport-related concussions are heterogeneous and require an individualized clinical approach. The use of a comprehensive approach for assessing specific clinical trajectories following a sport-related concussion will help clinicians better conceptualize this injury. Clinicians can then match targeted treatment pathways to specific clinical trajectories to accelerate safe return to play for athletes following a sport-related concussion.

Level of evidence

V.

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Correspondence to Freddie H. Fu.

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Collins, M.W., Kontos, A.P., Reynolds, E. et al. A comprehensive, targeted approach to the clinical care of athletes following sport-related concussion. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 22, 235–246 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00167-013-2791-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00167-013-2791-6

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