Citation

Karmali S, Beaton MD, Babul S. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022; 19(13): e8204.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2022, MDPI: Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute)

DOI

10.3390/ijerph19138204

PMID

35805862

Abstract

Appropriate supports and accommodations are necessary to ensure full concussion recovery and return-to-work (RTW). This research investigated barriers and facilitators to concussion recovery and RTW, and resource gaps reported by adults with concussion ('workers') and workplace and healthcare professionals ('workplaces'). Semi-structured interviews and focus groups were conducted with workers (n = 31) and workplaces (n = 16) across British Columbia. Data were analyzed using inductive content analysis. Facilitators to workers' concussion recovery and RTW included treatment, social support, and workplace and lifestyle modifications. To address barriers, both groups recommended: (a) widespread concussion and RTW education and training (b) standardized concussion recovery guidelines; (c) changing attitudes toward concussion; (d) mental health supports; and (e) increasing awareness that every concussion is unique.

FINDINGS can inform best practice for concussion recovery and RTW among professionals in workplaces, healthcare, occupational health and safety, and workers' compensation boards.

Language: en

Keywords

adult; concussion management; concussion recovery; mild traumatic brain injury; occupational health; workers; workplace