Concussion recovery: dual-task performance and prioritization.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess a clinically feasible DT protocol consisting of the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS) and Standard Assessment of Concussion (SAC) administered simultaneously during and beyond clinically determined concussion recovery. We recruited 28 collegiate student-athletes (14 post-concussion, 14 control) who performed a DT BESS and SAC assessment at three timepoints: 1) clinical recovery, 2) return to play (RTP) day, and 3) 30 days post-concussion. Scores on each component were assessed with a linear mixed model ANOVA with repeated measures and task prioritization was assessed with a Chi-Square. There was not a significant group by time interaction for the BESS (<i>F</i>: 0.48, <i>p</i> = 0.625, <i>ή</i>² = 0.018) or SAC (<i>F</i>: 1.927, <i>p</i> = 0.156, <i>ή</i>² = 0.069), but there was a significant difference in task prioritization at RTP (<i>χ</i>²: 13.4, <i>p</i> = 0.010). While group performance did not differ over time, the concussion participants had a range of task prioritizations at RTP, including mutual interference, which could help identify athletes with incomplete neurological recovery.