Early multidisciplinary care speeds concussion recovery in children

Children who receive early, multidisciplinary care for concussions recover significantly faster than those under standard treatment, according to a study published in the *British Journal of Sports Medicine*. Researchers at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI) found that 62.5% of children aged 8–18 with persistent post-concussion symptoms fully recovered within three months when given coordinated care, compared to just 37% receiving usual care. The intervention, delivered by a team combining education, physiotherapy, and psychological support, also reduced entrenched physical and mental symptoms in 94% of cases. The randomized clinical trial involved 158 children recruited from The Royal Children’s Hospital emergency department and GP referrals, with treatment beginning four weeks post-injury and continuing for up to eight weeks. Participants in the intervention group experienced fewer and less severe symptoms across sleep, physical, cognitive, and mental health domains. The study, supported by a Victorian Medical Research Acceleration Fund grant, demonstrated the program’s feasibility and acceptability despite the time commitment required. MCRI researcher Vanessa Rausa emphasized the findings address a critical gap in concussion care, as nearly one-third of children with concussions develop persistent symptoms disrupting school, sport, and daily life. Professor Vicki Anderson, who led the study, noted that current care often relies on fragmented treatments or delays, allowing symptoms to worsen. She suggested incorporating the intervention into routine clinical practice, as it tailors treatment to individual needs and may reduce repeated healthcare visits. Further research will explore scaling the model to community clinics and telehealth to improve access for families outside metropolitan areas. The study builds on earlier work, including a visit by former Victorian Minister Danny Pearson in April 2023 to announce the clinic’s launch. Concussion remains a growing health concern, with diagnosis and management poorly understood, particularly for children whose symptoms vary widely.