Evolution of dizziness-related disability in children following concussion: a group-based trajectory analysis

Objective: This study aimed to identify Dizziness-Related Disability (DRD) recovery trajectories in pediatric concussion and assess clinical predictors of disability groups. Materials and Methods: In this prospective cohort study, 81 children (8–17 years) diagnosed with an acute concussion took part in 3 evaluation sessions (baseline, 3-month, and 6-month). All sessions included the primary disability outcome, the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) to create the DRD recovery trajectories using group-based multi-trajectory modeling analysis. Each independent variable included general patients’ characteristics, premorbid conditions, function and symptoms questionnaires, and clinical physical measures; and were compared between the trajectories with logistic regression models. Results: Low DRD (LD) trajectory (n = 64, 79%), and a High DRD (HD) trajectory (n = 17, 21%) were identified. The Predicting and Preventing Postconcussive Problems in Pediatrics (5P) total score (Odds Ratio (OR):1.50, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.01–2.22), self-reported neck pain (OR:7.25, 95%CI: 1.24–42.36), and premorbid anxiety (OR:7.25, 95%CI: 1.24–42.36) were the strongest predictors of belonging to HD group. Conclusions: Neck pain, premorbid anxiety, and the 5P score should be considered initially in clinical practice as to predict DRD at 3 and 6-month. Further research is needed to refine predictions and enhance personalized treatment strategies for pediatric concussion.