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Basic information about concussion signs, symptoms, and recovery

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How neurocognitive and sideline testing are used

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Risks of returning to contact too soon

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Effects of concussion on school performance

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Contact-sports players take a pre-season computerized test to establish their baseline level of memory, reaction time, and processing speed.

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ImPACT^© (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) is the best-researched and most widely-used software for this purpose.

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Teams are trained in the use of a standard sideline test that screens for common concussion symptoms and cognitive dysfunction.

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ImPACT^© testing is repeated in the days immediately following the concussion to track the athlete's recovery. Results are analyzed by Neal McGrath, Ph.D., a Credentialed ImPACT^© Consultant Neuropsychologist.

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Many student athletes have difficulty meeting academic demands in school after a concussion due to ongoing symptoms.

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Office evaluation is available to identify individualized, specific accommodations that will allow the injured student to keep up in school as much as possible while facilitating the recovery process.

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Specialized clinical consultation can be provided to teachers, guidance counselors and parents

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Deciding when an athlete who has had a concussion is ready to return to a contact sport is often difficult for even experienced athletic trainers, team physicians, coaches, and family doctors. Parents rely on the judgment of these professionals.

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Neuropsychological consultation with objective cognitive testing provides invaluable expert support to these professionals.

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Knowing that symptoms have fully cleared and cognitive testing is back to baseline provides the best assurance that the student athlete is ready to return to full contact without undue risk of complications.

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By providing a state-of-the-art program with clear guidelines that support timely and safe return to play, school administrators, athletic departments, and families can feel greater confidence in these decisions.