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Baseline Concussion Testing
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Baseline testing is often used to describe computerized neuropsychological tests that measure memory, reaction times, and cognitive processing speed. But baseline testing is more than that. There are several components, when used together and properly administered, that can give an accurate evaluation of an athlete's capabilities before an injury occurs, in the areas of pre-existing symptoms, cognitive ability, and balance. Athletes who take baseline tests prior to the beginning of their season will have a test in-hand to compare a post-injury test to. The differences between the pre- and post-injury scores will aid medical professionals in making the all-important return-to-play decision.

Baseline testing consists of several components. Each should be administered annually, prior to the beginning of the season:

- symptom inventory

- neuropsychological testing

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- balance testing


Symptom inventory

Athletes should be evaluated using a checklist of concussion symptoms such as the SCAT2 prior to the start of their season. Developed by an international panel of concussion experts, this pre-season snapshot- unique to each individual- may offer valuable information regarding their status should they re-take the test after suffering a concussion. The results of pre- and post-injury values will be compared, giving a medical provider important information to use during management of the injury.

During the baseline pre-season test, health care professionals should also assess for a prior history of concussion (including symptoms experienced and length of recovery from the injury). It is also important to record other medical conditions that could impact recovery after concussion, such as a history of migraines, depression, mood disorders, or anxiety, as well as learning disabilities and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

Neuropsychological testing

It is useful to have a record of an athlete's cognitive ability prior to a concussion. Tests that measure memory, reaction time, and processing speed are used in the NFL, MLB, NHL, and in colleges and high schools around the country. There are several methods of obtaining this information, some administered using paper/pencil, others on the computer. Athletes will take a test before their season begins to establish "baseline" scores against which post-injury scores will be compared. Qualified medical professionals will then use these comparisons to aid in their return-to-play decisions.

Computerized

SportsConcussions.org offers computer baseline testing from a variety of companies. We work within communities to implement testing as part of an overall concussion education program. Baseline testing is a very important part of a concussion management program, under the right circumstances. In addition, many school districts, medical professionals, and sports organizations offer testing. Programs vary. Contact us for details.

Non-computerized

Baseline tests administered using pencil/paper (or an app) have also been found to be very effective. Learn more...

Balance testing

The combination of balance and computerized neuropsychological testing, when used together, greatly increases the efficacy of the baseline evaluation. Balance testing is an important component that is often overlooked. There are several testing platforms available to medical professionals who can provide this aspect of an evaluation into their concussion management programs.


Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Questions/comment? contact Jean Rickerson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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