Abstract
Background: Mild traumatic brain injury, commonly known as concussion, has been estimated to be around 600 per 100.000 yearly in Denmark, and 30-50 million new cases worldwide. Although complete resolution normally occurs within a few weeks, up to a third develop persistent post-concussion symptoms (PPCS) beyond 3 months. However, evidence for effective treatment strategies is scarce. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of the novel intervention GAIN Lite added to enhanced usual care (EUC) for adults with mild-to-moderate PPCS compared to EUC only.
Methods: An open-label, parallel-group, two-arm randomized controlled superiority trial (RCT) with 1:1 allocation ratio. Participants will be randomly assigned to either: 1) EUC or; 2) GAIN Lite added to EUC. GAIN Lite is characterized as a complex intervention and has been developed, feasibility-tested, and process evaluated before effect evaluation in the RCT. Sixty-six participants will be recruited to each group. Potential participants will be identified through the hospital's Business Intelligence portal of the Central Denmark Region or referred by general practitioners within 2-4 months post-concussion. Primary outcomes are mean changes in PPCS and limitations in daily life from baseline to 24 weeks after baseline
Discussion: GAIN Lite is a low-intensity intervention for adults with mild-to-moderate PPCS. Offering a remote intervention may improve access to rehabilitation and prevent chronification for individuals with mild-to-moderate PPCS. Moreover, GAIN Lite will facilitate access to healthcare, especially for those with transportation barriers. Overall, GAIN Lite may provide an accessible, flexible, and convenient way to receive treatment based on sound theories and previous evidence of effective interventions for adults with mild-to-moderate PPCS.
Trial Registration: URL: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT05233475. Registered on 10th of February 2022.