After the buzzer sounds: Adults unveil the consequences of concussions sustained during adolescence.

Abstract

Concussions are commonly occurring injuries in sport. The short-term impacts of concussions, including symptoms and recovery trajectories, often are the focus of concussion research. However, limited studies have explored the long-term consequences of concussions, especially in adolescents. The purpose of this study was to explore adults' experiences with concussions sustained during their adolescence (5-15 years prior). This qualitative study was guided by an interpretivist philosophy. Twenty young adults (11 men, 9 women, median age 26) who had sustained at least one sport-related concussion during their adolescence participated in a one-on-one semi-structured interview. We aimed to explore their experiences with their concussion at the time of injury and any consequences they experienced as a result of their concussion. We organized participants' concussion experiences into six main themes: (1) Concussion diagnosis and experiences with health care providers; (2) Emotional symptoms following concussion; (3) Concussion recovery; (4) Change in sport participation and engagement; (5) Concern about the potential long-term consequences; and (6) Impact on social relationships. We used the Biopsychosocial Model of Sport Injury Rehabilitation to organize the themes. Future research should explore how acute multi-disciplinary support could reduce the negative long-term consequences of concussion in adolescents.