Prevention of Post-Concussional Syndrome in North American Workers: The Importance of Early Intervention on Vocational Outcome

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to: (1) Establish whether or not specific rehabilitation for mild brain injury is effective for return to work; and (2) compare the efficacy of an impairment-focused model of treatment versus an early education approach in respect to ability to return to work. Two different approaches to intervention and treatment for those with a suspected concussion from a work-related injury were utilised by an urban, interdisciplinary, outpatient rehabilitation facility. The first approach, Group Treatment (GT), provided minimal early education at time of initial intake, emphasising an extensive group-focused interdisciplinary assessment and treatment. The second approach, Individualized Education and Treatment, (IET) emphasised early education, instead coupled with specific individualised services. Both groups received employment services. Post-discharge, GT (N = 26) resulted in 46% (n = 12) of individuals returning to competitive employment, while IET (N = 23) resulted in 78% (n = 18) of individuals returning to competitive employment. An asset-oriented early individualised educational approach appears to be a more effective for employment re-engagement.