# Concussion in Parasport: A Narrative Review of Research Published since the Concussion in Para Sport (CIPS) Group Statement (2021)

## TL;DR

This paper reviews recent research on sports-related concussions in parasport athletes and highlights the need for specific guidelines to improve their recovery and prevent long-term symptoms.

## Contribution

The paper identifies gaps in current concussion management for parasport athletes and suggests the need for tailored assessment and return protocols.

## Key findings

- Parasport athletes report greater concussion symptoms and severity than able-bodied athletes.
- Visually impaired athletes account for over 50% of parasport concussions.
- Wheelchair basketball and rugby have the highest concussion incidence in parasports.

## Abstract

Sports-related concussion (SRC) is an injury whereby impact to the face/head/neck impairs cognitive functioning. Parasport athletes have an increased risk for SRC. The Previous Concussion in Sport Group iterations lack guidance for parasport SRC assessment, management, and return-to-play. This article aims to investigate the research relating to parasport SRCs published since the 2021 Concussion in Para Sport (CIPS) position statement and highlights possible new recommendations. A literature review of parasport concussions was conducted. Articles citing the 2021 publication and/or published since then were reviewed. Relevant data were extracted and discussed in this article. Since 2021, twelve (n = 12) articles emerged investigating parasport SRC. Parasport athletes experience greater concussion symptoms and severity scores compared to able-bodied athletes. Visually impaired athletes account for >50% of parasport SRCs. Wheelchair basketball and rugby have the highest SRC incidence rates across parasports. Current SRC assessment methodologies are not designed with consideration of parasport athletes’ unique experiences. Guidelines lack a return-to-learning protocol, making returning to education/work challenging for such athletes. Understanding these athletes’ SRC experiences is paramount in supporting their recovery. Specific guidelines for SRC assessment, management, return-to-play, and return-to-learn for parasport athletes are necessary to enhance their rehabilitation and avoid the occurrence of long-term symptoms.