Concussion Unfunded IRB-Approved Studies
(HSC-MS-23-0727) Validity of Gait Disorientation Test in Adults with Concussion
PI: Kennedy Powell (MMS medical student)
Co-Is: Dr. Summer Ott, Mohammad “Harris” Tariq (MMS medical student)
Description: The purpose of this study is to determine if the Gait Disorientation
Test (GDT) is a valid screening method for diagnosing adults with concussion.
Status: Manuscript Preparation Underway
(HSC-MS-24-0079) Evaluating the Necessity of a Third Trial in SWAY Baseline
Concussion Assessments
PI: Dr. Summer Ott
Co-Is: Nikhil Gattu (MMS medical student), Dr. Phil Schatz (Faculty, St. Joseph University)
Description: This study examines the effectiveness of different baseline
assessment methods – single trail screening versus two- and three-trial
assessments – using the SWAY balance mobile application in high school
athletes. It aims to determine whether a third trial is necessary by analyzing
functional outcomes such as balance, memory, reaction time, impulse control,
and inspection time, with attention to age and gender differences.
Status: Data analysis & manuscript preparation underway
(HSC-MS-24-0501) Parent Personality as a Predictor of Symptom Severity in
Children with Delayed Recovery
PI: Dr. Summer Ott
Co-I: Jack Hurley (MMS medical student)
Description: The overall goal of this study is to identify key parental and child
personality traits that significantly influence the recovery process of children
following concussions. By uncovering these influential traits, the study aims to
develop personalized intervention strategies tailored to each child’s familial
dynamics, thereby optimizing concussion recovery outcomes and enhancing the
well-being of pediatric patients.
Status: Enrolling subjects, data collection underway
(HSC-MS-25-0689) Clinical Utility of the SWAY Balance Test Compared to
Modified BESS in Collegiate Athletes
PI: Dr. Summer Ott
Co-I: Dr. Rehal Bhojani (Faculty, Orthopedic Surgery)
Description: This study aims to bridge the gap in literature by comparing the
Sway Balance Test to a modified version of the BESS (mBESS) in a sample of
healthy collegiate athletes. By evaluating both tools under controlled conditions
and using multi-angle video recordings for scoring consistency, we aim to assess
the concurrent validity of Sway relative to mBESS and explore its potential as a
reliable baseline balance assessment tool.
Status: Enrolling subjects, data collection underway
(HSC-MS-20-0127) Database for Concussion-Related Factors and Outcomes
PI: Dr. Summer Ott
Description: The purpose of this protocol is to establish a database for patient
information that is pertinent to concussion diagnosis, management, and recovery.
It will consist of data collected from concussed patients during standard of care
visits with Dr. Summer Ott. The database will also include information regarding
performance on concussion-related assessments and return to daily activities.
The wealth of information in this database will serve as a resource aimed at
improving patient outcomes for concussion. To date over 350 patient data has
been included.
Status: Ongoing; over 350 patient records included