Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Determine the history of occupational head impacts, concussion symptoms, and concussion management in theater personnel.
METHODS: Personnel working in theater environments completed a survey about head impacts that occurred in theater activities and how they were managed.
RESULTS: Lifetime prevalence of sustaining at least one theater-related head impact was 67%. Thirty-nine percent of respondents reported more than five lifetime head impacts; 77% reported three or more. Of those who struck their head, 70% experienced concussion-related symptoms, but continued participating. Nearly half of those did not report the incident. Twenty-eight percent of those diagnosed with a concussion by a healthcare provider were not given recommended care.
CONCLUSIONS: Theater personnel are likely to sustain several occupational head impacts. They appear hesitant to report possible concussions and generally do not access definitive, evidence-based healthcare for head injuries.