Concussion testing consists of a test that objectively measures the effects of concussion on an athlete's brain. It measures such things as reaction time, processing speed, and different types of memory. Before this type of test was available, assessment of concussion relied heavily on an athlete's report of their symptoms. We now know that athletes often can not accurately report their symptoms or will chose to hide their symptoms in order to return to their sport as soon as possible. This type of test improves the accuracy of concussion diagnosis and is very helpful at knowing when an athlete's brain has fully recovered. This is especially important because recent research has indicated that a person's symptoms can be cleared, but their brain may still not be functioning normally. These tests are only tools, however, like using an ECG for evaluation of the heart; they need to be combined with judgment of medical professionals and clinicians in order to provide the best possible care for concussion.
What options are available for concussion testing?
There are both "pencil and paper" and computerized tests available which can help in the management of concussion.They all supplement, and do not replace, clinical judgment in the care of sports concussions.
The physicians and psychologists in the collaborative have committed to using ImPACT™ computerized testing because it has the most extensive research base for use with athletes, it has been validated for use with a broad age range of athletes including middle school, is widely adopted at all levels and in many types of sports, and we have many years of experience with its use.In addition, ImPACT’s™ web availability makes it suitable for baseline testing large numbers of athletes relatively inexpensively.Finally, professional training of physicians, psychologists and other medical professionals throughout Wisconsin will emphasize concussion evaluation and treatment including ImPACT™ computerized testing.
Neuropsychologists have extensive training in many different methods of brain testing and may choose to use other neuropsychologic testing in addition to, or in some cases, instead of, ImPACT™ testing.
What is ImPACT™?
ImPACT™ is a well researched, user-friendly, computerized test developed to help medical professionals evaluate an athlete's recovery following concussion. ImPACT™ has been scientifically validated to measure the effects of sports related concussion on the brain. In the pre-season, each athlete should take 20-30 minutes to complete a baseline test. When a concussion is suspected, a follow-up test can be administered to see if the results have changed from the baseline. This comparison helps to diagnose and manage the concussion. Follow-up tests can be administered over days or weeks so that medical professionals and clinicians are able to continue to track the athlete's recovery from the injury.
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