Transitory kinesiophobia after sport-related concussion and its correlation with reaction time

OBJECTIVES To examine kinesiophobia (i.e. fear of movement) among adolescent athletes with concussion compared to controls, and correlations of kinesiophobia with symptoms and reaction time. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. METHODS We evaluated 49 adolescent athletes twice. The concussion group was assessed within 14 days of injury and at return-to-play clearance. The control group was tested initially and approximately 28 days later. Participants completed Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory, and clinical reaction time assessments. RESULTS We included 32 concussion participants (15 ± 2 years; 50% female) and 17 controls (16 ± 1 years; 47% female). Acutely (