A comprehensive, targeted approach to the clinical care of athletes following sport-related concussion.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this paper is to discuss risk and prognostic factors for concussion outcomes, review comprehensive approaches to assessment, and describe a new method for conceptualizing treatment for sport-related concussion using clinical experience. METHODS: Based on the current literature of sport-related concussion and clinical experience, an approach for conceptualizing concussion care using clinical trajectories and targeted treatments was developed. RESULTS: A comprehensive approach to assessment and targeted treatments for sport-related concussion was developed using specific clinical trajectories. CONCLUSION: Sport-related concussions are heterogeneous and require an individualized clinical approach. The use of a comprehensive approach for assessing specific clinical trajectories following a sport-related concussion will help clinicians better conceptualize this injury. Clinicians can then match targeted treatment pathways to specific clinical trajectories to accelerate safe return to play for athletes following a sport-related concussion.