Neurocognitive Changes in Student Athletes with and without a Concussion

Abstract

Despite increased awareness in concussions, there is still minimal understanding of the physiological and psychological effects of concussion. To better understand concussion and the ensuing problems this injury can cause, further investigation into the neurological, physiological and neuropsychological effects is needed. Prior to the 2016/2017 hockey season, approximately 40 youth hockey players on two teams from Winnipeg Minor Hockey will undergo a variety of baseline tests. These tests include neurological exam, graded treadmill testing, neuroimaging MRI with brain stress test, neuropsychological testing, complete health-related quality of life surveys, and provide us with their school report cards. These tests will also be repeated within one month of the hockey season ending. It is estimated ~25% of the hockey players will sustain a concussion during the hockey season. When a concussion occurs, the player will undergo the abovementioned testing immediately after the injury and at the time that they are deemed recovered and able to return to full-contact game play. All of the players will be treated at the Pan Am Concussion Program and be treated by a neurosurgeon. While the MRI Brain Stress Testing will occur at Health Sciences Complex, the remaining testing will be performed at the Pan Am Concussion Program. The hockey players will be followed for the 2016-2017 and 2017-2018 seasons. Baseline and post-season testing will occur during both years.