Impact of a Paced Breathing Exercise Intervention on Autonomic Nervous System Function and Symptom Severity in Youth Post-concussion: a Pilot Feasibility Study

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the impact of a paced breathing exercise program on children and adolescents aged 9 to 18 years who are in the sub-acute phase after a mild concussion. The study aims to assess the feasibility of administering this breathing exercise intervention and document changes in autonomic nervous system function and symptom severity, including post-concussion symptoms, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. This pilot feasibility study is sponsored by McGill University Health Centre and seeks to understand how this intervention might support recovery after concussion. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. The intervention group will perform a daily 10-minute paced breathing exercise at home, involving inhaling for 4 seconds and exhaling for 6 seconds, totaling 6 breaths per minute. The control group will receive usual care through a concussion follow-up program involving physical and cognitive rest followed by gradual return to activities, with professional support as needed. Weekly phone meetings will guide participants in the breathing exercises and adjust instructions as necessary. Both groups will have a follow-up assessment after four weeks. During the study, participants will complete daily logs recording their exercise practice. Researchers will assess autonomic function through heart rate and heart rate variability at the start and after four weeks. Symptom severity and recovery milestones such as return to school, return to sport, and medication clearance will also be recorded. This study will monitor feasibility by tracking days and duration of practice, with all participants evaluated for outcomes and safety over the four-week period.

Impact of a Paced Breathing Exercise Intervention on Autonomic Nervous System Function After Pediatric Concussion