A qualitative analysis of existing concussion return to play protocols and psychological recovery management in Gaelic games

Background: Sports related concussions are a common injury in field-based contact sports including Gaelic games. Even though accurate data on concussion in Gaelic games is currently limited, it is well documented that concussion is a common injury in Gaelic sports. The purpose of this current research was to discern the psychological impact of concussion on Gaelic games athletes as in many instances, recovery from concussion focuses mainly on physical recovery. Methods: A grounded theory methodology was used to explore the experiences of a cohort of adult male and female amateur and elite amateur Gaelic games athletes (n = 22) and their experiences involving psychological recovery post-concussion and eventual return to play. The data for this study were gathered through a series of individual semi-structured interviews. Results: Two major themes were identified, (1) lack of psychological recovery management for concussion in Gaelic games athletes and, (2) non-standardised concussion protocols and concussion education within Gaelic games. These themes were further divided into categories and subcategories. Conclusion: Recovery from concussion in Gaelic games is broadly a non-standardised process, whereby recovery processes are haphazard and lack enforcement. There are no directives or guidance for recognising the need for psychological recovery, or assistance to recover from concussion in the acute or chronic phases or for those with long term post-concussion syndrome.