JAMA Netw Open

Can a headset that measures 'headpulse' better gauge concussion recovery?

August 16, 2023

New changes in headpulse were observed postconcussion, with headpulse alterations lasting two weeks longer than symptoms. Results suggest this objective metric may complement return-to-play protocols.

• This cohort study included headpulse measurements from players competing in the highest level of amateur Australian Rules Football in South Australia. 
• A total of 59 control and 43 concussed patients provided headpulse measurements.
• Headpulse reached the abnormality threshold in a total of 26 of 32 concussed athletes (81%; 9% on day 0, 50% by day 2, 90% by day 14). Alterations in headpulse lasted 14 days longer than symptoms and were exacerbated by return-to-play or unsupervised physical activity.

Source:

Halabi, C. et al. (2023, August 11). JAMA Netw Open. Headpulse Biometric Measures Following Concussion in Young Adult Athletes. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37566413/