Your team or organization has provided information about baseline concussion testing and are requesting your young athlete participate. What is baseline testing and how does it work?
Baseline test do not evaluate the subject for a concussion, identify past concussion(s), prevent future concussions or determine if the athlete is predisposed to a concussion. A baseline test is used as a benchmark tool to determine if your athlete can safely return to play following a subsequently incurred concussion.
The baseline test is a computerized online test here in the Pittsburgh area it is known as ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) this test is used to establish a benchmark score when a player is in their non-concussed or normal state.
The test takes approximately 30 minutes and is designed to evaluate and document multiple aspects of an athlete’s neuro-cognitive state: brain processing speed, memory and visual motor skills. All NHL players undergo such a test.
The baseline test will then be used as part of a comprehensive clinical evaluation to determine recovery following a concussion.
If you think your athlete has sustained a hit to the head or any other potential for concussion prior to taking the baseline test, it is strongly recommended that you seek medical care from a concussion expert.
Thanks for the information!