Sport Concussion Management Using Facebook: A Feasibility Study of an Innovative Adjunct "iCon".

CONTEXT

Sport concussion is currently the focus of much international attention. Innovative methods to assist athletic trainers in facilitating management after this injury need to be investigated.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the feasibility of using a Facebook concussion-management program termed iCon (interactive concussion management) to facilitate the safe return to play (RTP) of young persons after sport concussion.

DESIGN

Observational study.

SETTING

Facebook group containing interactive elements, with moderation and support from trained health care professionals.

PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS

Eleven participants (n = 9 men, n = 2 women; range, 18 to 28 years old) completed the study.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

The study was conducted over a 3-month period, with participant questionnaires administered preintervention and postintervention. The primary focus was on the qualitative experiences of the participants and the effect of iCon on their RTP. Usage data were also collected.

RESULTS

At the completion of the study, all participants (100%) stated that they would recommend an intervention such as iCon to others. Their supporting quotes all indicated that iCon has the potential to improve the management of concussion among this cohort. Most participants (n = 9, 82%) stated they were better informed with regard to their RTP due to participating in iCon.

CONCLUSIONS

This interactive adjunct to traditional concussion management was appreciated among this participant group, which indicates the feasibility of a future, larger study of iCon. Athletic trainers should consider the role that multimedia technologies may play in assisting with the management of sport concussion.