Evaluating the methodological quality of sports neuropsychology concussion research: A systematic review

Primary objective: Sports-related concussion is a frequently-occurring, serious neurological event that can produce a spectrum of potentially debilitating primary and secondary problems. Many investigators-particularly neuropsychologists-have focused their efforts on identifying cognitive changes that accompany such injuries. As such, the present review evaluated the methodological quality of neuropsychological sports-related concussion research using a comprehensive, systematic method. Research design: Of 349 studies initially selected by search criteria, a total of 43 studies were evaluated using a Cochrane-style review format. Research methods: Studies were assigned a Level of Evidence using the Centre for Evidence-based Medicine (CEMB) framework. Relevant information related to the methods of each study were extracted and rated for methodological quality using a standardized form-based evaluation tool. Results: The review revealed heterogeneity among the studies in terms of research design, as well as a number of methodological weaknesses and inconsistencies. Conclusion: Despite the proliferation of neuropsychological research on sports-related concussion over the past decade, the methodological quality of studies appears to be highly variable, with many lacking proper scientific rigour. Future research in this area needs to be carefully controlled, repeatable and generalizable, which will contribute to developing practical, evidence-based guidelines for concussion management.