Angelina Schaaf
- B.A. (Vancouver Island University, 2020)
Topic
Changes in Sleep Quality and Quantity in Concussed Athletes with the Application of 3D-MOT (Neurotracker)
School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education
Date & location
- Thursday, April 30, 2026
- 11:00 A.M.
- McKinnon Building, Room 092
Examining Committee
Supervisory Committee
- Dr. Lynneth Stuart-Hill, School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education, University of Victoria (Supervisor)
Dr. Brian Christie, School of Medical Sciences, UVic (Outside Member)
External Examiner
- Dr. Jodie Gawryluk, Department of Psychology, UVic
Chair of Oral Examination
- Dr. Charles Curry, School of Earth and Ocean Sciences, UVic
Abstract
Individuals recovering from a concussion often experience sleep complications affecting their sleep quality and quantity, which may prolong their recovery and symptoms experienced following a concussion. This pilot feasibility study aims to examine the effects of 3D-MOT (specifically Neurotracker) on sleep quality and quantity in concussed athletic populations (18-35 years old). The study used a multiple-subject design and collected sleep data from 3 concussed adults (3M). The study collected 3 nights of sleep data before and after 10 Neurotracker sessions over 5 weeks. All participants in this study experienced decreases in REM and deep sleep following 10 Neurotracker sessions. After 10 Neurotracker sessions, performed twice a week for 5 weeks, all participants experienced an increase in perceptual and cognitive performance. Two of the three participants experienced an increase in the number of symptoms and perceived post-concussion symptom severity collected from self-reporting measures using the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS). As this is a small-sample study, no definitive conclusions can be drawn. The findings from this study provide observational trends if 3D-MOT, specifically Neurotracker, may affect sleep quality and quantity in concussed adults and increase perceived PCSS. This study recommends future research examining the effects in a larger sample but provides insight into the potential effects of 3D-MOT on sleep quality and quantity.