Balance control during gait in athletes and non-athletes following concussion

Med Eng Phys. 2008 Oct;30(8):959-67. doi: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2007.12.006. Epub 2008 Feb 1.

Abstract

Current literature provides only limited information regarding performance on dynamic motor tasks following concussion. However, recent investigations have suggested that participation in contact sports may have a negative effect on cognitive function without the existence of a medically diagnosed concussion. The purpose of this study was to examine balance control during gait in concussed and uninjured athletes and non-athletes. Twenty-eight Grade 2 concussed individuals (14 athletes and 14 non-athletes) and 28 uninjured matched controls (14 athletes and 14 non-athletes) were assessed for their gait performance within 48 h, 5, 14, and 28 days post-injury under conditions of divided and undivided attention. Athletes, whether concussed or not, walked slower and swayed more and faster than non-athletes. Athletes consistently demonstrated gait imbalance even in the absence of concussion. The findings of this study support the supposition that participation in high-impact sports has a measurable and possibly detrimental effect on balance control in the absence of a medically diagnosed concussion.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Athletic Injuries / complications
  • Athletic Injuries / physiopathology*
  • Brain Concussion / complications
  • Brain Concussion / physiopathology*
  • Female
  • Gait Disorders, Neurologic / etiology
  • Gait Disorders, Neurologic / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Postural Balance*
  • Young Adult