Self-reported Head Trauma Predicts Poor Dual Task Gait in Retired NFL Players.

Review written by Mike Studer info

Key Points

  1. American-style football has a relatively high rate of long-term effects from concussions.
All key points available for members only
Start free trial Icon
Or log in here

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE

Head trauma from American-style football (ASF) has been linked to brain pathology. However, the long-term effects of head trauma on cognitive-motor function are poorly understood. This study used a remote, app-based tracking system to examine the relationship between automaticity in gait (tolerance of distractions) and symptomatic concussions in the careers of professional football players. The primary objectives of this study were to:

  1. Investigate whether there was a measurable effect on dual task capacity that was correlated to the number of concussions, and the number of concussions with loss of consciousness (LOC).
  2. Demonstrate the proof of concept that a mobile app would be sensitive enough to detect and agree with more sophisticated technologies in measuring variability in gait under dual task conditions.

Head trauma from Americanstyle football (ASF) has been linked to brain pathology.
bulb
This study supports the need for dual task testing in gait, as part of a comprehensive balance assessment.

METHODS

In a large study of retired NFL players (the highest professional league for ASF), 66 former athletes were selected as a part of the study. Participants conducted 45 second single-task and dual-task gait trials in their home, using the mobile

Start free trial Icon
to unlock full access to this review and 1097 more
Or log in here
Trustpilot