The Clinical Practice Characteristics, Self-Confidence, and Barriers Related to Treatment Following Concussion Among Athletic Trainers

Abstract

There is limited information about the use and perceptions of interventions postconcussion. The purpose of this study was to examine the treatment characteristics, self-reported confidence and perceptions of treatment, and barriers to treatment implementation. More than 50% of respondents utilized interventions for cervicogenic (55.5%, n = 85/153) and migraine symptoms (82.4%, n = 126/153). While respondents utilized and believed they should implement treatments, more than half referred to another healthcare professional (e.g., physical therapy, physician, psychologist) to perform treatment interventions. Finally, those in the clinic setting report having more adequate staff to perform treatments compared with high schools (p = .003). The continued use of interdisciplinary teams’ postconcussion and the development of lower cost staff and resource interventions may help to increase adoption.