No change in brain function or cognition following acute exercise in young adults with compared to those without a history of sport-related concussion : an ERP investigation
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Megan N. Johnson (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
- Advisor
- Eric Drollette
Abstract: Background: Sport-related concussions continue to impact more than one million US children under 18 years of age annually. Amongst these injuries, long-term cognitive and behavioral consequences are evident in approximately one-third of emerging adults (ages 18 – 29) which may be positively influenced by the mental and brain health benefits associated with acute exercise. As such, it is possible that acute exercise may positively impact these potentially lingering neuroelectric consequences impacting cognitive function in previously concussed emerging adults. Purpose: This study sought to examine (Aim 1) executive function and EEG measures in those with and without a history of concussion at baseline as a function of concussion measured on day 1, and (Aim 2) measure the impact of a single, acute bout of exercise on executive function and EEG outcomes in those with compared to without a history of concussion. Methods: Young adults who have or who are currently participating in noncollegiate competitive sport (n = 25; 18 – 24 years old) visited the lab on two separate days exactly one week apart for approximately two hours to complete a rest and exercise condition that was counterbalanced between participants. Both prior to and following the rest and exercise conditions, participants completed the flanker task with continuous electroencephalogram (EEG) data recorded. Both the cognitive and EEG data were collected to evaluate differences in executive function processes including inhibitory control and the P3 event-related potential (ERP) component (associated with the allocation of attentional resources and the organization and evaluation of stimuli). Results: Results for Aim 1 revealed no differences in attention or inhibition (executive function or P3 outcomes) at baseline between the concussed and non- concussed groups. Results for Aim 2 revealed no changes in executive function or P3 outcomes following acute exercise in those with a history of concussion compared to those without. Conclusion: Current findings suggest emerging adults with a history of sports-related concussions do not experience significant changes to inhibitory control, attentional resources, or P3 components on day 1 or prior to and following an acute bout of exercise. Therefore, regardless of concussion status, acute exercise can continue to be used to improve overall health without negatively impacting these aspects of executive function. Future research should examine how individual differences in exercise, sedentary time, and age of acquiring a concussion may impact this relationship between exercise, cognition, and concussions.
No change in brain function or cognition following acute exercise in young adults with compared to those without a history of sport-related concussion : an ERP investigation
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Created on 8/1/2022
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Thesis
- Language: English
- Date: 2022
- Keywords
- Concussion, ERP, Executive Function, Exercise
- Subjects
- Executive functions (Neuropsychology)
- Cognition $x Effect of exercise on
- Brain $x Concussion
- Sports injuries