Background: There is increasing attention on the long-term sequelae following multiple concussions and traumatic brain injury (TBI) in later life. The majority of the research has focused on long-term cognitive impairments and behavioural changes. Despite being researched and reported, long-term motor dysfunction and movement disorders as a consequence of concussions and TBI have not received due consideration.
Review: This study used a systematic review and qualitative analysis that focused on two key areas: (1) identified movement disorders in individuals with a reported history of repeated concussions or repeated mild-to-moderate TBIs; and (2) identified motor impairments in individuals with a history of repeated concussions or repeated mild-to-moderate TBIs. Fourteen studies investigating long-term movement disorders or motor impairments as a result of repeated concussions or TBI met the selection criteria. Study ratings were moderate-to-high; therefore, evidence was strong enough to conclude that repeated concussions or repeated mild/moderate TBIs did affect the motor system.
Conclusion: The evidence in this systematic review highlights the need for future studies to include motor outcomes along with cognitive and behavioural outcomes when assessing the long-term effects of repeated concussions or repeated mild/moderate TBIs.
Keywords: Brain concussion; motor skills disorders; movement disorders; traumatic brain injury.