The Effect of a Single Bout of Sub-Symptom Threshold Aerobic Exercise on Executive Function During Early Sport-Related Concussion Recovery
Abstract
Background: Impaired executive function (EF) is a primary sequela of sport-related concussion (SRC). Aerobic exercise below symptom exacerbation may improve post-SRC EF via increased cerebral blood flow (CBF). Objectives: To examine the impact of a single bout of sub-symptom threshold aerobic exercise on CBF and EF during SRC recovery. Methods: SRC participants (n = 16) and age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HC) completed 20-min of aerobic exercise at 80% of their heart rate threshold (HRt). Pre- and postexercise EF was assessed via antisaccades. Transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD) estimated exercise-mediated CBF changes. Results: SRC and HC participants showed an exercise-mediated increase in CBF (psConclusions:Sub-symptom threshold aerobic exercise increases CBF and improves inhibitory control following an SRC.