NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL FUNCTIONING AND RECOVERY AFTER MILD HEAD-INJURY INCOLLEGIATE ATHLETES

OBJECTIVE: This study prospectively examined neuropsychological functi oning in 2300 collegiate football players from 10 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division A universities. The study was designed t o determine the presence and duration of neuropsychological symptoms a fter mild head injury. METHODS: A nonequivalent repeated measures cont rol group design was used to compare the neuropsychological test score s and symptoms of injured players (n = 183) with those of gender, age, and education matched controls. A number of neuropsychological tests, including the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test, the Digit Symbol T est, and the Trail Making Test, as well as a symptom checklist were us ed. TECHNIQUE: Players and controls were assessed before engaging in g ame activity and 24 hours, 5 days, and 10 days after injury, using the standardized test battery and symptom checklist. RESULTS: Players wit h head injuries displayed impaired performance and increased symptoms in comparison to controls, but this impairment resolved within 5 days in most players. Players with head injuries showed significant improve ment between 24 hours and 5 days, as well as between 5 and 10 days. CO NCLUSION: Although single, uncomplicated mild head injuries do cause l imited neuropsychological impairment, injured players generally experi ence rapid resolution of symptoms with minimal prolonged sequelae.