New Study by Dr. Nate Porcher Sheds Light on Sports-Related Concussions and Return-to-Play Protocols

Dr. Nate Porcher, a leading chiropractic expert and a prominent figure at Foundation Sport & Spine, has co-authored a pivotal study titled "A narrative review of sports-related concussion and return-to-play testing with asymptomatic athletes." Published in the esteemed Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, the research delves deep into the long-term effects of multiple concussions, post-injury protocols, and the efficacy of current return-to-play guidelines.

About the Study

The primary objective of this literature review was to explore, through current literature examples, the cumulative and long-term effects of multiple concussions. The study also aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of post-injury protocols and the current and past guidelines for returning athletes to play.

The research highlighted that while an athlete might be symptom-free and has returned to a neuropsychological baseline, there could still be lingering neurological abnormalities. These findings suggest that some athletes might be returning to play with unresolved neurological issues, which could have significant implications for their long-term health and safety.

Key Findings

1. Athletes who have suffered multiple concussions might exhibit lower post-concussion neuropsychological test results than those who haven't experienced multiple concussions.
2. The long-term effects of repeated concussions have been linked to conditions like chronic traumatic encephalopathy and even early onset of Alzheimer's disease.
3. Despite being symptom-free and passing standard return-to-play tests, some athletes might still have residual functional deficits.
Implications and Future Directions

This research underscores the need for a more comprehensive and nuanced approach to evaluating athletes post-concussion. The findings suggest that relying solely on symptom resolution might not be enough to ensure an athlete's readiness to return to play.

Dr. Nate Porcher's study is a significant contribution to the growing body of research on sports-related concussions. It emphasizes the need for more rigorous and multifaceted evaluation protocols to safeguard the health and well-being of athletes.

Contact

For more insights into the study or to schedule an interview with Dr. Nate Porcher, please contact Foundation Sport & Spine at +1 847 342 3000 or visit foundationsportspine.com.

415 W Golf Rd STE 12,
Arlington Heights, IL 60005

Dr. Nate Porcher graduated Summa Cum Laude from the National University of Health Sciences (Lombard, IL) with a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine (D.C.), and as the Salutatorian of his class. He has also recorded hundreds of hours of certified post-graduate level continuing education in P-DTR (Proprioceptive Deep Tendon Reflex, Active Release Techniques (ART), Neurokinetic Therapy (NKT) "Be Activated" Muscle Activation, Motion Palpation Technique, Functional Assessment, Treatment, and Rehabilitation, Functional Movement Systems (FMS), Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Technique (DNS), and is Certified in Dry Needling through the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy.

This release was published on openPR.