Concussion Symptom Resolution Expectations and Subsequent Development of Persisting Symptoms After Adolescent Concussion

Context Patient recovery expectations may influence actual recovery, although how this applies to adolescents with concussion is not well understood. Objective To evaluate associations between anticipated symptom resolution time with persisting symptoms after concussion (PSaC). We hypothesized that longer anticipated symptom resolution time would be associated with higher odds of developing PSaC. Design We conducted a prospective cohort study of adolescents with concussion. Participants were enrolled within 21 days of concussion and identified their anticipated recovery time (in weeks since injury). We monitored them through self-reported symptom resolution: PSaC was defined as symptoms lasting >28 days postinjury. Setting Adolescents with concussion seen for care at 2 tertiary care centers. Patients or Other Participants Eighty-seven adolescents (average age = 15.8 years, 49% female) with a recent concussion were followed for >1 month after initial evaluation, which took place