A - 36 Long-Term Psychological Symptoms Following Concussion in Adolescent Ice Hockey Players

Concussion symptoms typically resolve within 30 days from injury; however, in up to 35% of cases, symptoms may be prolonged and continue months, or even years, and may be associated with longer-term mental health problems. This study aimed to assess long-term psychological and emotional symptoms in adolescent youth ice hockey players after medical clearance to return to play. This study used data collected prospectively as part of a larger longitudinal cohort study involving injury surveillance in hockey players (11-18 years), conducted over five seasons from 2013 through 2018. Pre-season baseline measures of psychological and emotional functioning were compared across two consecutive time points, for youth with an intervening concussion, musculoskeletal. (MSK) injury, or no intervening injury. Random intercept models with players nested by team and individuals, captured the effects of players contributing to the analysis multiple times. Covariates included age, sex, and body checking policy. Adolescent ice hockey players who sustained a concussion showed no evidence of worsening self-reported psychological and emotional symptoms after injury, compared to youth with MSK injury or no injury. Compared to athletes with MSK or no injury, athletes who sustained a concussion also showed no worsening symptoms based on parent ratings. The present study found no evidence of worsening psychological and emotional symptoms among adolescent ice hockey players up to one-year post-concussion, compared to youth with MSK injury or no injury. These findings support the expected recovery trajectory timeline of concussions and support current return-to-play policies for this group.