When managing athletes with concussions, especially those with persistent symptoms, treatment should not be a one-size-fits-all.
Instead, it requires a multidisciplinary approach. This means bringing together a variety of specialists to help athletes fully recover and safely return to play following concussions.
A recent research study supports this point. Researchers conducted a comprehensive review of concussion literature, as well as interviews with 94 healthcare professionals. These professionals included neurologists, neuropsychologists, optometrists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, neurosurgeons, and case managers.
The findings of the research study confirm that concussion recovery is most effective when led by teams over just individuals.
Today on the blog, let’s dive into the research results and its implications for sports teams and organizations.
What Did the Research Study Reveal?
The research study revealed three key insights:
1. Consensus on Patient-Centered Care
The clinicians agreed that concussion care should be:
- Centered on the athlete
- Focused on restoring athlete function
- Match the everyday and personal goals of the athlete
2. Barriers to Implementation of a Team Approach
Many healthcare teams struggled to put a team approach into practice due to:
- Fragmented communication
- Insurance obstacles
- Role ambiguity among healthcare providers
3. Four-Part Framework for Better Outcomes
To improve concussion outcomes, the researchers recommended the following four-part framework:
- Discipline-specific expertise (using the unique skills of each professional)
- Coordinated training across roles
- Technology integration into communication and rehabilitation
- Care infrastructure (like shared documentation and referral systems)
What The Research Results Mean for Sport Organizations
These research findings speak directly to schools, clubs, and leagues aiming for safer and more effective concussion management.
Here are some recommendations for sports teams to take action:
1. Build Support Networks Across Multiple Healthcare Providers
Don’t rely solely on athletic trainers. Establish partnerships or formal referral pathways with neuropsychologists, vision specialists, therapists, and other clinicians. This is especially important for athletes with lingering symptoms from their concussion (typically >1 month).
2. Standardize Communication
Put systems in place so that everyone is on the same page. This could include shared files and regular meetings. This will help avoid pitfalls like delayed referrals or mixed messaging during recovery.
3. Leverage Smart Technology
Technology can certainly streamline recovery. Even if resources are limited, consider small steps like telehealth check-ins or simple app-based symptom monitoring.
4. Advocate for Better Reimbursement and Accessibility
Highlight to administrators the challenges of fragmented care, such as limited access for athletes in rural schools or those with limited insurance. Pushing for policies that support team-based, reimbursed care is critical.
Final Takeaway
This research study is a powerful reminder that neither athletes nor healthcare providers should navigate concussion recovery alone.
Successful recovery hinges on interprofessional collaboration, infrastructure that supports communication, and equity in access. Sport organizations can make progress toward multidisciplinary care by aligning teams, technology, and training.
HEADCHECK Health can help!
If your organization is looking to improve its concussion response systems, HEADCHECK Health can help you navigate that journey.
Contact us today to learn how we can support your concussion management strategy.
References
Shelley-Tremblay JF, Lawton T. Interprofessional Approaches to the Treatment of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: A Literature Review and Conceptual Framework Informed by 94 Professional Interviews. Med Sci (Basel). 2025 Jun 23;13(3):82. doi: 10.3390/medsci13030082. PMID: 40700111; PMCID: PMC12286118.
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- Concussion Education Alone Isn’t Enough: Rethinking Prevention in Youth Sports - July 22, 2025
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