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 aged 15 ± 2 years 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 lasted 49 ± 17 days. 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 of 36.85 ± 23.21 points to 4.31 ± 5.04 points 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.