Dr. Aaron Sinnott, Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Sports Sciences, recently collaborated on a pioneering manuscript that establishes new, standardized guidelines for managing concussions in university-level performing artists. The journal Neurology published the work in its March 24, 2026 issue.
Led by Dr. Allyssa Memmini, Assistant Professor of Athletic Training at the University of New Mexico, the multi-institutional research team addressed a critical gap in healthcare for student performers. While universities have robust "return-to-play" protocols for athletes, performing arts students have historically lacked equivalent support systems for a safe return to the stage or studio.
To build this new framework, the team recruited 21 panelists from May to December 2024, including clinicians, concussion researchers, performing arts faculty, and students with personal concussion histories. Using a modified Delphi technique, the panel built consensus across three rounds of voting. This rigorous process produced the Progressive Return-to-Performance Protocol (PRTPP) , a stepwise approach with tailored recommendations for dance (26 statements), music (36 statements), and theater (39 statements). These guidelines provide a framework for medical and academic teams to create individualized post-concussion plans, considering factors like performing with others, using equipment, building endurance, and managing environmental stimuli such as lighting and costumes.
"Performing arts students have similar demands to those required of NCAA varsity student-athletes, yet lack a standardized framework to assist with their return to performance after concussion," Dr. Memmini said. "The purpose of this research was to compare multidisciplinary perspectives to generate consensus on appropriate guidelines to improve post-concussion management specific to performing arts students. We hope this work will bridge communication between medical providers and academic personnel to ensure performing arts students receive the care they need to support a safe and full recovery."
The core research team highlights the collaborative effort across multiple institutions, including:
- Dr. Aaron Sinnott, Assistant Professor, University of Miami
- Dr. Allyssa Memmini, Assistant Professor, University of New Mexico
- Dr. Kristen Schuyten, Physical Therapist at Michigan Medicine and Lecturer at the University of Michigan
- Dr. Paola Savvidou, Wellness Initiative Program Manager and Lecturer at the University of Michigan
Read the full manuscript online in Neurology: View the Article
