Perceived efficacy of evidence-based and non-evidence-based self-treatments for managing chronic concussion symptoms

Abstract

As evidence builds toward a multimodal approach for concussion treatment, data that provides a snapshot of individuals’ engagement in different treatment methods may inform future intervention design. Relationships between concussion history, treatment type, and subjective cognitive functioning remain largely unexplored. We aimed to assess participation in various types of treatment as well as individuals’ perceived treatment effectiveness and subjective cognitive functioning. We hypothesized that individuals with a history of concussion compared to those without would report poorer perceptions of cognitive functioning. An online cross-sectional survey was administered to 1,285 adults (18+) with and without a history of concussion. The survey assessed demographic information, sport participation and concussion history, treatment experience, and measures of subjective cognitive functioning. Among respondents, 293 (24.9%) reported a history of at least one concussion with 86 (30.0%) reporting concussive symptoms lasting at least one month. The most common behavior engaged in to treat symptoms was mild physical activity (51.9%) followed by cryotherapy (37.2%) and then medication (32.8%). The three most common treatment methods perceived to be at least somewhat effective were mild physical activity (92.8%), cryotherapy (92.7%), and medication (90.1%). Results support hypothesized mean differences in the number of subjective memory mistakes (72.30 vs 69.86, p < .05) and mindful attention (4.09 vs 3.89, p < .05) among those with one or more reported concussions. These data add to existing literature supporting a negative relationship between concussion and subjective cognitive functioning. More research is needed to determine the efficacy of popular and non-traditional treatments for reducing perceived cognitive functioning associated with concussion.