Journal of athletic training
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Previous researchers have shown that current health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is lower in former National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I athletes than in nonathletes. However, evidence supports the idea that individuals in collision sports (football) may suffer more serious injuries that may affect them later in life. ⋯ Competing at the Division I level can be strenuous on an athlete's physical, mental, and social dimensions, which can affect the athlete later in life. Based on these data, collision athletes may sacrifice their future HRQoL compared with contact and limited-contact athletes.
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Epidemiologic studies have identified differences in concussion incidence between the sexes. However, few authors to date have updated injury rates (IRs) and time loss between male and female concussed athletes. ⋯ Female athletes sustained a higher rate of concussion and, in all sports except lacrosse, had greater time loss from concussion than male athletes. Additional research is needed on sex differences in time loss after concussions.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Physiologic and Perceptual Responses to Cold-Shower Cooling After Exercise-Induced Hyperthermia.
Exercise conducted in hot, humid environments increases the risk for exertional heat stroke (EHS). The current recommended treatment of EHS is cold-water immersion; however, limitations may require the use of alternative resources such as a cold shower (CS) or dousing with a hose to cool EHS patients. ⋯ Although the CS facilitated cooling rates faster than no treatment, clinicians should continue to advocate for accepted cooling modalities and use CS only if no other validated means of cooling are available.
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Comparative Study
Age Differences in Recovery After Sport-Related Concussion: A Comparison of High School and Collegiate Athletes.
Younger age has been hypothesized to be a risk factor for prolonged recovery after sport-related concussion, yet few studies have directly evaluated age differences in acute recovery. ⋯ The findings suggest no clinically significant age differences exist in recovery after sport-related concussion, and therefore, separate injury-management protocols are not needed for high school and collegiate athletes.
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Some healthy athletes report high levels of baseline concussion symptoms, which may be attributable to several factors (eg, illness, personality, somaticizing). However, the role of baseline symptoms in outcomes after sport-related concussion (SRC) has not been empirically examined. ⋯ Reported baseline symptoms may help identify athletes at risk for worse outcomes after SRC. Clinicians should examine baseline symptom levels to better identify patients for earlier referral and treatment for their injury. Additional investigation of baseline symptoms is warranted to help delineate the type and severity of premorbid symptoms.