Aerobic Exercise for Adults with Post-Concussive Symptoms
Author Information
Author(s): Leah J. Mercier, Samantha J. McIntosh, Chloe Boucher, Julie M. Joyce, Julia Batycky, Jean-Michel Galarneau, Joel S. Burma, Jonathan D. Smirl, Michael J. Esser, Kathryn J. Schneider, Sean P. Dukelow, Ashley D. Harris, Chantel T. Debert
Primary Institution: University of Calgary
Hypothesis
Does a 12-week aerobic exercise intervention improve symptom burden and quality of life in adults with persisting post-concussive symptoms?
Conclusion
A 12-week aerobic exercise intervention improves overall symptom burden, quality of life, and specific symptom domains in adults with post-concussive symptoms.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants showed significant improvement in symptom burden on the Rivermead Post Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire.
- Quality of life improved significantly as measured by the Quality of Life After Brain Injury questionnaire.
- Specific symptoms such as dizziness and exercise tolerance also improved significantly.
Takeaway
Doing exercise can help people who still feel bad after a concussion feel better and enjoy life more.
Methodology
This was a prospective cohort study with 50 adults who completed a 12-week aerobic exercise intervention, measuring changes in symptom burden and quality of life.
Potential Biases
A higher proportion of females participated, which may affect the applicability of results to the general population.
Limitations
The study lacked a control group and was conducted at a single center, which may limit generalizability.
Participant Demographics
Mean age of 42.6 years, 74% female, and 25.1 months post-mTBI.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI reported for various outcomes.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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