Highlighting gaps in the reporting of aerobic exercise interventions for mild traumatic brain injury: A systematic review using the TIDieR-Rehab checklist

Abstract

Objective

To assess intervention reporting quality in randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing aerobic exercise with control interventions following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).

Methods

Five databases were systematically searched for RCTs that compared the effect of aerobic exercise interventions with no intervention or another control, on symptom severity or recovery, in adolescents or adults with mTBI. Two reviewers independently screened articles, extracted data, and rated reporting quality using the TIDieR-Rehab checklist. Reporting completeness was quantified by intervention group and TIDieR-Rehab item. Authors were contacted to determine if reporting could be improved.

Results

Within 13 included studies, overall reporting was moderate (62 ​% of TIDieR-Rehab items complete). Dosage items ‘Frequency’ (85 ​%) and ‘Intervention length’ (96 ​%) were well reported, whereas ‘Session duration’, ‘Essential elements amount’, ‘How challenging’, and ‘Regression/Progression’ were moderately reported (54 ​%–65 ​% complete). Personalisation and protocol deviations were poorly reported (12 ​%–23 ​%). On average, authors supplied 71 ​% of missing intervention details on request.

Conclusions

The TIDieR-Rehab checklist revealed critical reporting gaps. Incomplete reporting of aerobic exercise parameters hinders clinical translation and limits investigation of optimal dosage parameters and underlying mechanisms. Poor reporting of personalisation and protocol deviations may mask necessary adaptations for individuals with mTBI. To improve reporting in this field, it is recommended that researchers utilise the TIDieR-Rehab checklist when planning and reporting their studies.