Abstract:
Objective: The long-term impact of sports-related concussion is uncertain. Several studies using traditional neuropsychological measures have found a relationship between concussion history and reduced cognitive abilities. In contrast, studies using computerized neuropsychological measures have typically found no relationship between concussion history and cognition. In the present study, we examined the association between self-reported concussion history and cognition using traditional and computer-based neuropsychological tests. Method: A computerized neuropsychological battery was administered to a sample of 930 collegiate male athletes. A traditional neuropsychological battery was administered to a sample of 657 male collegiate athletes. Concussion history was assessed via selfreport. None of the athletes had been concussed in the six months prior to testing. Results: No significant association was found between self-reported concussion history and performance on either computerized or traditional neuropsychological tests. Conclusion: Findings suggest that athletes who report a distant history of concussion have minimal cognitive deficits. Given conflicting findings in the literature, prospective studies that attempt to identify moderating factors are encouraged to help determine who is at risk for long-term cognitive difficulties following concussion.