Evaluating the quality of online information about concussions.
OBJECTIVE
Compare and assess information available on the Internet about the definition, symptoms, treatment, and return to play recommendations after a concussion.


METHODS
The top 10 websites generated by a Google search on the keyword "concussion" were evaluated by two independent researchers and three medical professionals for definition, signs, symptoms, home treatment, care-seeking advice, and return to play recommendations. The medical professionals also rated their willingness to recommend each website to patients.


RESULTS
Each website contained a general list of signs, symptoms, and home treatment. One website advised the use of ibuprofen, four advised against ibuprofen, and five made no medication recommendations. Nine websites contained guidance on seeking physician care, and eight recommended athletes not return to play until cleared by a healthcare professional.


CONCLUSIONS
Nine of the websites contained information for each section evaluated; however, information was inconsistent. Healthcare providers should be aware of the variable quality of information available on the Internet and guide patients to more optimal resources.
Gina M. Berg is director of trauma research at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kan.; Ashley M. Hervey is a research associate at the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita; Dusty Atterbury and Ryan Cook are PA students at Wichita State University. Mark Mosley is medical director of emergency services at Wesley Medical Center. Raymond Grundmeyer practices at Abay Neuroscience Center in Wichita. David Acuna is a trauma surgeon and critical care intensivist at Wesley Medical Center and associate medical director of trauma services for the medical center. The authors have indicated no relationships to disclose relating to the content of this article.
Gina M
GM
Berg
Ashley M
AM
Hervey
Dusty
D
Atterbury
Ryan
R
Cook
Mark
M
Mosley
Raymond
R
Grundmeyer
David
D
Acuna
D001924:Brain Concussion; D006801:Humans; D009862:Online Systems