Emerging evidence reveals a strong link between concussions and an increased risk of lower extremity musculoskeletal injuries. Athletes who return to sport post-concussion are more vulnerable to injuries like ligament sprains, strains, and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears. The challenge arises due to altered neuromuscular control, postural stability, and abnormal movement patterns, which can persist long after initial recovery from the concussion.
One of the significant concerns with post-concussion recovery is that full neuromuscular control may not return within the standard recovery period. Underlying motor dysfunctions, such as poor postural control and altered landing biomechanics, often linger, increasing the risk of injuries in the knee and ankle. Individuals who’ve suffered concussions often land in a more upright position, with reduced knee and ankle flexion, resulting in higher internal knee adduction moments, a precursor to ACL injuries. These altered movement patterns are particularly evident when cognitive tasks are introduced.
Balance impairments are a well-known consequence of concussions, often assessed early in recovery. Post-concussion balance disturbances can manifest as a larger center of pressure sway and velocity—both indicators of poor postural stability. Even in individuals who have been deemed clinically recovered, balance issues may persist, further increasing the risk of injury during sports participation.
Given these findings, it’s crucial for rehabilitation programs to address both the physical and cognitive aspects of post-concussion recovery. Athletes may benefit from targeted balance training, motor control exercises, and dual-task rehabilitation to address both movement dysfunctions and cognitive challenges. Post-concussion assessments should extend beyond simple balance tests, incorporating more dynamic movement analysis to better understand how individuals perform under cognitive stress.
