Cardiovascular sequelae of sports‐related concussions. Issue 10 (8th September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Krzyzaniak, Halli; Fatehi Hassanabad, Ali
• Is Part Of: PM&R. Volume 14:Issue 10(2022)
• Page Start: 1219
• Page End: 1226
• Publication Date: 2021-09-08
• Subjects: Medical rehabilitation -- Periodicals; Physical therapy -- Periodicals; Physical Therapy Modalities -- Periodicals; 615.5
• DOI: 10.1002/pmrj.12686
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1934-1482

Abstract

Abstract: We are becoming more aware of sports‐related concussions (SRCs). Current return‐to‐play (RTP) guidelines are often based on subjective clinical symptoms rather than objective physiologic measures. Although evidence is limited, the purpose of this article is to summarize the data pertaining to acute and chronic cardiovascular effects of SRCs, and to determine whether there are objective metrics that could improve currently used RTP protocols. Research shows that SRCs cause cardiovascular autonomic nervous system (CV‐ANS) dysfunction induced by decreased baroreceptor sensitivity (BRS). This disturbance persists past the point of clinical symptom resolution and can worsen through subsequent exertion, which may impact long‐term recovery. Further studies are needed to establish the most appropriate physiologic metrics for analyzing recovery post‐SRC and whether the addition of physiologic measures to RTP guidelines improves recovery from these injuries. This is an understudied area that carries important clinical implications. Larger and more robust trials are warranted to inform the development of guidelines that should focus on lessening the compounding effects of multiple concussions and improve the management of SRCs.