Concussions in NCAA Varsity Football Athletes: A Qualitative Investigation of Player Perception and Return to Sport.

Tjong, Vehniah K; Baker, Hayden P; Cogan, Charles J; Montoya, Melissa; Lindley, Tory R; Terry, Michael A · J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev · 2017

case_series · Level IV

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Abstract

The objective of this study was to understand the experiences and perspectives of varsity football athletes on return to play following a concussion injury. Two experienced interviewers conducted qualitative, semistructured interviews of college-level football players who had sustained at least one concussion during their varsity careers. Twenty varsity football players who averaged 2.3 concussions each (range, 1-5) were interviewed regarding peer pressure, the culture of football, and player awareness as factors affecting return to sport following a concussion. Less common secondary factors included risk management, severity and timing of the injury, and team support. Psychological stressors, the culture of football, and increased awareness were the most influential factors affecting collegiate football players' deciding to return to sport following a concussion. Level III.