Effectiveness of Targeted Individualized Multi-modal Treatments in Adults Suffering from Persistent Concussion Symptoms as Compared to a Self-Directed At-Home Program

Disabilities secondary to traumatic brain injury are a major source of burden. Specifically, patients in Ontario seeking tertiary care for persisting symptoms following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) result in health costs of over $110 million annually (Hunt et al). Numerous treatments have been utilized and studied in an attempt to treat persistent postconcussive symptoms. However, the majority of clinical trials have examined the efficacy of a single treatment. Given mTBI is a heterogenous condition characterized by a variety of clinical presentations, one could assume a lack of recovery or response to therapy when done in isolation.

Our primary objective is to evaluate the benefits of an individualized rehabilitative treatment protocol through the assessment of changes in the brain. We intend to study the before and after treatment states of the participant, via functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and a rapid advanced electroencephalography (EEG) when compared to a control group who will receive self-guided education alone. The structural changes will be compared to standardized assessments as well as the participants’ self-reported postconcussion symptom severity score.

For the partner organization, NeuroCatch, the proposed project hopes to help assist in addressing the current limitations known to cognitive health assessments.

Faculty Supervisor:

Milos Popovic

Student:

Partner:

NeuroCatch

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Toronto

Program: