Mobile Brain and Balance Program for Concussion

This trial explores a new program to aid athletes in recovering from sports-related concussions or mild head injuries. Participants will use a mobile app for 14 days, combining brain exercises, such as counting backwards, with light walking to improve thinking, balance, and mood recovery. This program, called BraW-Day™ (Brain & Walk Exercise Every Day), enhances recovery through daily activities. Participants will visit UNLV twice for assessments, perform daily 15-minute exercises at home, provide a saliva sample, and complete short questionnaires. Individuals who have experienced a sports-related concussion in the past 3-12 months, can walk lightly, and have a smartphone might be suitable candidates. Even without direct benefit, involvement can advance research for better recovery methods. As an unphased trial, participation can significantly contribute to pioneering research in concussion recovery.

If you are currently on prescribed medications that may significantly affect cognitive function, balance, neurological function, or safe participation in light physical activity, you may not be eligible to participate in this trial.

Research has shown that exercises similar to those in the BraW-Day program are generally safe for individuals who have experienced a concussion. Studies indicate that combining physical activities, like walking, with simple cognitive tasks, such as counting backwards, does not raise the risk of adverse effects. Light physical activity after a concussion is often recommended to aid recovery. This approach is typically well-tolerated, allowing most people to participate without issues. While no treatment is entirely risk-free, current evidence suggests that the BraW-Day program is a safe option for those recovering from a concussion.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about the BraW-Day™ program for concussion recovery because it offers a unique, home-based approach that combines physical and cognitive exercises. Unlike standard treatments, which often focus on rest and gradual return to activities, BraW-Day™ encourages daily 15-minute sessions of walking paired with cognitive tasks, like counting backwards or performing memory exercises. The program's adaptability, with increased cognitive task difficulty and optional guided breathing exercises, makes it stand out. This mobile intervention leverages technology via the Uplode app, making it an accessible and engaging option for patients recovering from concussions.

Research has shown that exercise can help people recover faster from concussions. One study found that those who exercised recovered about 4.6 days sooner than those who did not. Aerobic exercise, which increases heart rate, can boost brain function and ease concussion symptoms. Some research suggests that combining physical and mental exercises can further speed up recovery. In this trial, participants will engage in the BraW-Day™ program, which includes walking and brain exercises, and it may aid recovery from sports-related concussions.¹³⁴⁵⁶