Don't wait until your player has a possible head injury or concussion before having a baseline test done. Read this article for more info:
https://www.cdc.gov/headsup/basics/baseline_testing.html
Jackie Jarrell
Owner-Gold Performance Training
Registered Kinesiologist
ImPACT Trained Athletic Trainer
1753 Blessington Rd.
Corbyville, Ontario K0K 1V0
test takes 30 mins max.
[email protected]The simplest definition of a concussion baseline test is a series of physical and/or cognitive test(s) that measure healthy brain function prior to an injury. In the event of a concussion, the results of this test(s) can be used as a comparison to help your healthcare provider make return-to-sport decisions.
Symptoms disappearing or going away after a concussion is considered a poor indication of brain recovery. If a concussed athlete shows no more symptoms, this does not mean that they have fully recovered from their concussion.
A concussion causes disturbances in brain cells, changes in blood flow to the brain, and a number of other functional issues. Research shows that before full recovery from a concussion, the brain is very vulnerable. Even smaller impacts could cause another concussion, which could result in severe brain injury or, in rare cases, death. Reason why Roman's Law was adding as specific training by OMHA.
When properly used and interpreted, a concussion baseline test can add useful information to the management of concussions by giving healthcare practitioners insight into an athlete’s individualized pre-injury function and abilities. Simply, we have a better understanding of an athlete’s healthy state and what type of results they should get when fully recovered.
Having access to these test scores after a concussion injury can provide healthcare practitioners with a set of personalized, objective data that could be used to make more informed and safer return to play decisions for an injured athlete.
Baseline testing is more than just a computerized neurocognitive test. The more tests, the better but it is a start .
Baseline testing isn't recommended for athletes younger than 10 years old as they tend to change quite rapidly over time and most of the concussion tests available have only been validated in athletes over 10. Furthermore, although concussions can happen anywhere, athletes who play sports with a low risk of concussion (swimming, golf, tennis, etc.) would have to consider whether baseline testing adds enough value given their relatively low risk of concussion injury.