Sport-Related Concussion Recovery in Athletes

1. Study Description This study aims to enhance the accuracy of concussion evaluation and improve return-to-play decisions for athletes recovering from sport-related concussions. By incorporating both traditional assessment tools and advanced neuroimaging technology, such as Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS), this research seeks to refine how concussions are diagnosed and monitored. 2. Who is Participating? College athletes will be recruited as part of their routine concussion baseline testing. Participants will include: * Athletes diagnosed with a sport-related concussion by healthcare providers. * Matched control athletes who have not sustained a concussion, assessed on the same schedule as concussed athletes. * Contact and non-contact sport athletes who have not experienced head injuries, tested before and after the season. 3. How is the Study Conducted? Testing occurs at four key time points: * Pre-Season (Baseline): Athletes complete a series of tests to establish their normal cognitive and physical function before any injuries occur. * Post-Injury (Within 72 Hours and Asymptomatic): If an athlete sustains a concussion, they undergo assessments shortly after the injury to measure its immediate effects. * Return-to-Play: Once the athlete has completed the necessary recovery steps and is cleared to return to play, they are reassessed to evaluate their recovery progress. * Re-Baseline (Six Months Post-Injury): Concussed athletes undergo follow- up testing at least six months after the injury to assess long-term recovery and determine whether any persistent neurophysiological changes remain. 4. What is Being Measured? This study utilizes a comprehensive concussion evaluation approach that includes: * Sideline assessments (e.g., Sports Concussion Assessment Tool \[SCAT\]) * Computerized neurocognitive testing (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) * Objective balance tests (NeuroCom VSR Sport) * Vestibular/Ocular-Motor Screening (VOMS) * Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) to measure brain activity non-invasively * Clinical symptom tracking and medical history review 5. Why is This Study Important? The data collected will contribute to a robust database aimed at improving concussion assessment methods. By integrating fNIRS with standard concussion tests, this research seeks to enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve the ability to track recovery, and ensure a safer return to play for athletes. Additionally, the inclusion of a re-baseline assessment at six months post-injury will provide valuable insight into the long-term effects of concussion, informing future guidelines for concussion management. Ultimately, these findings could lead to more reliable tools for healthcare providers managing sport-related concussions.