Citation

Mucha A, Trbovich A. J. Orthop. Sports Phys. Ther. 2019; ePub(ePub): 1-33.

Affiliation

University of Pittsburgh Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Pittsburgh, PA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Orthopaedic Section and Sports Physical Therapy Section of the American Physical Therapy Association)

DOI

10.2519/jospt.2019.8855

PMID

31597546

Abstract

SYNOPSIS: Concussion is an ongoing concern for health care providers, as incidence rates continue to be high and the rate of recovery is variable due to potential risk factors. With no valid biomarkers at present, the diagnosis and assessment of concussion remains a clinical challenge. The heterogeneity in presentation following injury provides an additional level of complexity, as it requires that clinicians are capable of screening and evaluating diverse body systems including oculomotor, vestibular, autonomic, psychiatric, cervical, and cognitive. While a few tools such as the VOMS and BESS have been developed specifically for use with concussion, the vast majority of tests are adapted from other conditions. Further complicating the process is the overlapping and interactive nature of the multiple domains of post-concussion presentation. This commentary will illustrate how clinicians may conceptualize the multiple profiles that present following concussion and tools that are available to assist with screening and evaluation of each area. The multi-faceted nature of concussion warrants broad clinical screening skills and an interdisciplinary approach to management. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther, Epub 9 Oct 2019. doi:10.2519/jospt.2019.8855.

Language: en

Keywords

assessment; concussion; diagnosis; heterogeneity