By Jude Coe
Photo by Milad Fakurian on Unsplash
At the University of Birmingham’s MoveWell Clinic, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for students who have sustained concussions, particularly those involved in sports. Our concussion clinic is a vital resource, offering specialised support and leveraging cutting-edge research to ensure the best outcomes for our student-athletes.
Comprehensive Concussion Care
The MoveWell Clinic operates a dedicated concussion clinic, available to any student athlete who has sustained a suspected sports-related concussion. Our clinic runs on Mondays and Thursdays, providing timely assessments and personalised care plans. Our team of experienced physiotherapists, are committed to guiding students through their recovery journey, ensuring they receive the highest standard of care.
Collaboration with Research Projects
One of the unique aspects of our concussion clinic is our collaboration with ongoing research projects. We are currently involved in an innovative concussion biomarker study, focusing on identifying markers of brain injury through saliva and blood tests. This research aims to enhance our understanding of concussions and improve diagnostic accuracy, particularly for our female athletes. By integrating research with clinical practice, we are at the forefront of concussion care, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in this critical area.
Working with Sport Science & Physiotherapy Students
A key component of our concussion clinic is our collaboration with sport science and physiotherapy students. These students play an integral role in supporting the gradual return-to-sport process for our athletes. Here’s how we work together:
- Monitoring and Assessment: Physiotherapy and sport science students assist in monitoring the progress of athletes through various stages of their recovery. They use evidence-based assessment tools to track improvements in cognitive and physical functions.
- Designing Rehabilitation Programs: Together with physiotherapists, sport science students help design and implement individualised rehabilitation programs. These programs are tailored to the specific needs of each athlete, ensuring a safe and effective return to sport.
- Data Collection and Analysis: Sport science students are involved in collecting and analysing data related to concussion recovery. This data is crucial for refining our protocols and improving the overall effectiveness of our interventions.
- Providing Support and Motivation: Students offer additional support and motivation to athletes during their recovery. Their involvement helps create a supportive environment that encourages athletes to adhere to their rehabilitation plans in the gym and on the pitch.
Enhancing Care Through Collaboration
Collaboration is at the heart of our approach. We work closely with various departments within the University of Birmingham, including the Graduate School of Sport and Professional Practice (GSSPP), to ensure a multidisciplinary approach to concussion management. This collaboration allows us to pool resources, share expertise, and provide comprehensive care to our students.
Additionally, our partnerships with external research institutions and healthcare providers enable us to stay updated with the latest advancements in concussion care. This ensures that our students benefit from the most current and effective treatment protocols. We have been very fortunate to have close links with Hobbs Rehabilitation Team and The Concussion Clinic at the UHB NHS Trust Birmingham.
Judith Coe
Assistant Professor in Physiotherapy, University of Birmingham
J.Coe@bham.ac.uk