Efficiency of an Active Rehabilitation Intervention in a Slow-to-Recover Paediatric Population following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Objective. The aim of this study was to identify whether the addition of an individualised Active Rehabilitation Intervention to standard care influences recovery of young patients who are slow-to-recover following a mTBI.Methods. Fifteen participants aged15±2years received standard care and an individualised Active Rehabilitation Intervention which included (1) low- to high-intensity aerobic training; (2) sport-specific coordination exercises; and (3) therapeutic balance exercises. The following criteria were used to measure the resolution of signs and symptoms of mTBI: (1) absence of postconcussion symptoms for more than 7 consecutive days; (2) cognitive function corresponding to normative data; and (3) absence of deficits in coordination and balance.Results. The Active Rehabilitation Intervention lasted49±17days. The duration of the intervention was correlated with self-reported participation (x-=84.64±19.63%,r=-0.792,p<0.001). The average postconcussion symptom inventory (PCSI) score went from a total of36.85±23.21points to4.31±5.04points after the intervention (Z=-3.18,p=0.001).Conclusion. A progressive submaximal Active Rehabilitation Intervention may represent an important asset in the recovery of young patients who are slow-to-recover following a mTBI.