GAIN 2.0
Funded by Sygesikringen "danmark", GAIN 2.0 builds on DANCORC’s work, integrating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and gradual return to activities. It includes psychoeducation, goal setting, physical exercise, relaxation, home assignments, and cognitive-behavioral reflections. The intervention consists of three structured group sessions and up to five individual sessions and is delivered in collaboration with 19 municipalities in Central Region Denmark.
Using a stepped-wedge design, GAIN 2.0 is tested against enhanced usual care in participants with persistent, moderate symptoms 2–4 months post-mTBI. The primary outcome is symptom severity (RPQ scale) measured three months post-intervention, covering physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms.
GAIN LITE
A remote, scaled-down version of GAIN is being tested in an RCT against enhanced usual care. GAIN Lite provides access to short video clips with information on PCS, reassurance on its typically benign course, and guidance on symptom management. This is supplemented by up to three individual video or phone sessions over six months.
Participants with persistent, light to moderate symptoms 2–4 months post-mTBI are invited. The primary outcome is symptom severity (RPQ) six months post-intervention. Secondary outcomes include health-related quality of life, illness perception, behavior, and work/education status. Inclusion begins in early spring 2023, following a feasibility study completed in autumn 2022.
Post-Traumatic Headache (PTH)
Headaches are one of the most common and long-lasting symptoms after a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), with about 18–22% of patients experiencing them for more than three months. However, the exact causes and best treatments remain unclear. PTH is currently classified as a secondary headache disorder, but experts disagree on whether it resembles migraines, tension headaches, or a mix of both.
To better understand PTH, we will study patients from hospital records and GP referrals in Central Denmark Region. Over 24 months, we will track headache patterns, symptoms, and treatment responses to improve diagnosis and care.
We will also explore biological markers linked to PTH, such as proteins and inflammation-related substances in the body, which may help explain why some people develop persistent headaches after mTBI.
Since no clear treatment guidelines exist, we are testing a promising new approach called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a non-invasive brain stimulation technique already used for migraines and chronic pain. Our study will compare rTMS to a placebo treatment to see if it reduces headache severity and other post-concussion symptoms in the months following treatment.
Impact of Persistent PCS and Interventions on Daily Life
Studies show that 36% of Danes hospitalized with a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) are not back at work after a year, and their risk of long-term work absence is 50% higher than the general population. However, little research explores how mTBI affects daily life from a personal perspective or what influences individuals' ability to participate in work and society.
This project aims to understand how persistent symptoms impact quality of life, daily activities, work participation, job stability, and healthcare use—both for individuals with mTBI and their close relatives. It will also assess whether interventions offered through DANCORC improve these aspects and whether factors like age, gender, education, and prior work history influence outcomes.
Additionally, we will explore individuals’ personal experiences, including their challenges, opportunities, coping strategies, and the support they receive, to better understand how mTBI affects daily life and well-being.
Return to work after concussion
With this project, we aim to help more individuals who have suffered from traffic accidents, injuries, or violence and are experiencing long-term effects of a concussion (hereafter: citizens) return to work or education. We want to reduce the number of people who, as is currently the case, are left without timely and evidence-based support to move forward in their lives.
The project's goal is to develop a targeted, holistic, and sustainable intervention that connects sick-listed citizens, their employers, and municipal actors who work daily with this group in relation to return-to-work (RTW) efforts.
The project is funded by Folkesundhed i Midten og Offerfonden.
