Citation

Gioia GA. Brain Inj. 2014; 29(2): 195-206.

Affiliation

Division of Pediatric Neuropsychology, Children's National Health System, Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry & Behavioural Medicine, George Washington University School of Medicine , Rockville, Maryland , USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.3109/02699052.2014.965210

PMID

25356518

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Significant attention has been focused on concussions in children, but a dearth of research evidence exists supporting clinical evaluation and management.

AIM: The primary objective of this review paper is to describe a multimodal, developmentally adapted, standardized concussion assessment and active rehabilitation approach for children as young as 5 years old.

METHODS: This study reviews the CDC-funded research programme, including the development of tools for post-concussion symptom assessment involving the child and parent, measurement of specific neurocognitive functions and assessment of dynamic cognitive exertional effects.

RESULTS: A clinical approach to active, individualized, moderated concussion rehabilitation management is presented, including a 10-step guide to symptom management, with a specific focus on the school challenges faced by the recovering student.

CONCLUSION: To better inform concussion practice across the developmental age spectrum, a significant need exists for further research evidence to refine clinical assessment methods and develop effective treatment approaches.

Language: en