COMPLEXITY OF COGNITIVE TASK AFFECTS GAIT BALANCE CONTROL IN CONCUSSED ADOLESCENTS

Authors

  • David R Howell
  • Louis R Osternig
  • Li-Shan Chou

Keywords:

Dual-Task, Sport Concussion, Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to prospectively examine the effect of different secondary tasks performed during gait on balance control ability in acutely concussed individuals. Individuals suffering from concussion subsequent to sport participation (n = 20) and healthy, matched controls (n = 20) were assessed in their ability to walk and complete three different cognitive tasks simultaneously over a period of two months following injury. Gait balance control deficits appeared to be greater as the complexity of the task increased. This finding may assist clinicians utilizing dual-task assessments in their diagnosis and management of concussion.

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Published

2013-08-29

Issue

31 International Conference on Biomechanics in Sports (2013)

Section

Coaching and Sports Activities

License

Authors can retain copyright, while granting the International Society of Biomechanics in Sports (ISBS) the right of first publication.