Long-Term Residuals Following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

A new study published in the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness entitled “Subtle Long-Term Cognitive Effects of a Single Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and the Impact of a Three-Month Aerobic Exercise Intervention” debunks the myth that a single, uncomplicated mTBI won't have any permanent residuals. The researchers sought to determine the long-term effects of a single mTBI on cognition in patients aged 55-70 years old. In addition, they wanted to see the impact the aerobic exercise programs would have on these patients' recovery.

The research included 35 participants who had sustained a mild traumatic brain injury two to seven years earlier. Each participant had a negative scan, no pre-existing risk factors for poor outcome, and were well-educated. The research found significant differences in information processing speed, executive function, and visual memory on neuropsychological tests between controls and mild traumatic brain injury patients.