Citation

Tjong VK, Baker HP, Cogan CJ, Montoya M, Lindley TR, Terry MA. J. Am. Acad. Orthop. Surg. Glob. Res. Rev. 2017; 1(8): e070.

Affiliation

Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL (Dr. Tjong, Mr. Cogan, Ms. Montoya, Mr. Lindley, Dr. Terry); and University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago (Mr. Baker).

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.5435/JAAOSGlobal-D-17-00070

PMID

30211371

PMCID

PMC6132341

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to understand the experiences and perspectives of varsity football athletes on return to play following a concussion injury.

METHODS: Two experienced interviewers conducted qualitative, semistructured interviews of college-level football players who had sustained at least one concussion during their varsity careers.

RESULTS: Twenty varsity football players who averaged 2.3 concussions each (range, 1-5) were interviewed regarding peer pressure, the culture of football, and player awareness as factors affecting return to sport following a concussion. Less common secondary factors included risk management, severity and timing of the injury, and team support.

CONCLUSIONS: Psychological stressors, the culture of football, and increased awareness were the most influential factors affecting collegiate football players' deciding to return to sport following a concussion. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Language: en