Evaluating different methodological approaches to inform physiologically-based exercise strategies to improve recovery following sport-related concussion
Date
2022-06
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Abstract
After sustaining a sport-related concussion (SRC), following a brief initial rest period (24-48 hours), a gradual return to physical exertion with exercise performed below symptom threshold is recommended.1,2 However, there is currently a paucity of literature examining how physical activity (PA) should be performed during the recovery phase following a concussion; including recommendations on intensity, duration, and modality. Research has shown that physical exertion can exacerbate symptoms (e.g., headache, balance, vision impairments, dizziness) and cerebral blood flow (CBF) regulatory mechanisms can be altered,3,4 which may impact one’s quality of life and ability to return to sport.2,5 Combined, these findings provide a potential physiological explanation for the mechanisms of clinical symptom exacerbation commonly reported during exertion following a concussion.6 Evaluating the methodologies using a physiologically-informed approach informed a further the understanding of the underlying mechanisms of clinical symptom exacerbation at rest and during PA, which is vital in creating evidence-based recovery management processes following SRC. In this dissertation, the evidence related to how PA affects recovery following an SRC in adolescents was systematically reviewed. Second, appropriate attachment site for objectively measured sleep and PA metrics was examined in adolescents. Next, a newly developed cycle protocol was compared physiologically to the Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test in uninjured adults. Finally, CBF responses to progressively increasing lower body negative pressure during moderate intensity aerobic exercise in healthy young adults was investigated. The overall findings from this research enhanced the understanding of physiological measures associated with exertion (including modality and postural considerations) in an uninjured population.
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Citation
Miutz, L. N. (2022). Evaluating different methodological approaches to inform physiologically-based exercise strategies to improve recovery following sport-related concussion (Doctoral thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca.