No CrossRef data available.
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 10 July 2025
Background: Identifying white matter abnormalities after acute concussion is challenging due to variable microstructural changes and individual imaging limitations. Combining diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) improves sensitivity to alterations. This study integrates neuroimaging and behavioural assessments to improve detection and characterization of abnormalities for clinical management. Methods: We recruited 12 recently concussed athletes (21 ± 2.1 years, 7 ± 4.6 days post-injury; 9 completed behavioural testing) and 24 controls. All participants underwent DTI and NODDI to assess white matter integrity. Kinematic performance was evaluated using the Kinarm exoskeleton robot’s Reverse Visually Guided Reaching (RVGR) task. Group differences in imaging and kinematic metrics were analyzed using permutation-based and parametric tests, controlling for age and sex. Results: Concussed athletes had elevated fractional anisotropy, reduced mean and radial diffusivity, and lower isotropic volume fraction in affected tracts. However, no group differences emerged in RVGR parameters, indicating intact sensorimotor function despite imaging abnormalities. Conclusions: Our findings reveal that acute concussion leads to measurable microstructural changes without corresponding functional deficits on a cognitive inhibition task. These findings highlight the clinical utility of neuroimaging for early and precise diagnosis, emphasizing its sensitivity over behavioural measures to detect subtle impairment for acute concussion management.