Paced breathing exercises for children after concussion
Impact of a Paced Breathing Exercise Intervention on Autonomic Nervous System Function and Symptom Severity in Youth Post-concussion: a Pilot Feasibility Study
This study is testing if a daily breathing exercise program can help kids and teens recover from concussion symptoms better than just regular care.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 9 Years to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | McGill University Health Centre/Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Montreal, Quebec) |
| Trial ID | NCT06559865 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot clinical trial evaluates the feasibility of a paced breathing exercise program for children and adolescents recovering from a concussion. Participants aged 9-18, experiencing post-concussion symptoms, will engage in a daily 10-minute breathing exercise at home while documenting their progress. The study includes a control group receiving usual care, with both groups assessed after four weeks to measure changes in autonomic function and symptom severity. Weekly phone meetings will provide support and adjustments to the exercise regimen.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children and adolescents aged 9-18 who are 7 days to 3 months post-concussion and experiencing relevant symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients with known heart disease or previous neurological issues other than concussion may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could improve autonomic nervous system function and reduce post-concussion symptoms in pediatric patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of paced breathing exercises in this context is novel, similar interventions have shown promise in managing symptoms related to autonomic dysfunction.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * aged 9-18 years * seven days-3 months post-concussion, * at least one post-concussion symptom in the Post-concussion Symptom Inventory (PSCI) that is relevant to ANS dysfunction (e.g. dizziness, nausea, fatigue, confusion, anxiety or sleep disturbances). Exclusion Criteria: * known heart disease, * previous neurological problems other than concussion
Where this trial is running
Montreal, Quebec
- McGill University Health Center — Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Isabelle Gagnon, PhD
- Email: isabelle.gagnon8@mcgill.ca
- Phone: 514-412-4400
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.