Citation

Rosenbloom C, Chatterjee R, Chu W, Broman D, Okholm Kryger K. Sci. Med. Footb. 2022; 6(3): 317-324.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2022, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/24733938.2021.1983921

PMID

35862156

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This study explored sport-related concussion (SRC) return-to-play (RTP) behaviours and attitudes of medical team staff working in elite football [soccer] in the United Kingdom. Usage and awareness of The Football Association (FA) guidelines, concussion education rates of players and coaching staff, and collection of baseline concussion assessments. Additionally, confidence in managing RTP post-SRC, perceived player under-reporting of symptoms, use of enhanced RTP pathways, and coaching pressure on RTP were investigated.

METHODS: A cross-sectional questionnaire study was distributed online by organisations including or representing medical staff working in elite football in the United Kingdom.

RESULTS: A total of 112 responses were gathered. High awareness rates of the FA guidelines were found (96%) with variable rates of player and coaching staff concussion education. Baseline concussion assessments were collected by 80% of respondents with 93% feeling very confident or confident in managing the RTP of a player with a SRC. 60% rarely or never experienced coaching pressure around player RTP, and 24% felt players always or very often under-reported symptoms to expedite their return. 90% had a moderate to high confidence in the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool-5 (SCAT-5) as a RTP decision tool, and 66% always or very often used an enhanced RTP pathway.

CONCLUSION: Confidence in managing player RTP post SRC and use of enhanced RTP pathways were high, as was confidence in the SCAT-5 as a RTP decision tool. Respondents raised concerns around player under-reporting of symptoms to accelerate RTP post-SRC, and perceived coaching pressure around decision making.

Language: en

Keywords

rehabilitation; head injury; doctor; physiotherapist; Soccer; therapist