Notes

Concussion Baseline Testing
Concussion Baseline Testing: The First Step in Concussion Management
Erin Shapcott
October 4, 2024
Uncategorized
While concussions in sports are not new, our knowledge about them has changed greatly over the past years. As awareness of concussions has grown, so has the need for effective tools to assess and manage these injuries. One of the most important advancements in this area is Concussion Baseline Testing. This crucial tool provides a reference point for athletes’ cognitive and physical performance, helping medical professionals determine when it’s safe for them to return to play.

Continue reading to learn more about Concussion Baseline Testing AND find out about Sheddon’s upcoming Concussion Baseline Testing Weekend on October 19th and 20th.
Why Is A Concussion Baseline Test Important?
Concussion Baseline Testing Sheddon Physio Sports Clinic Oakville Burlington

Concussions can be difficult to diagnose and treat, because their symptoms can be vague and don’t always present clear physical signs. According to the latest International Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport, conducting baseline testing before the season begins provides healthcare professionals with important, objective data to help make decisions about when it’s safe for athletes to return to play. It also helps educate athletes about the risks of concussions and how to manage them. Baseline testing is widely recommended by leading organizations such as:


The Ontario Neurotrauma Foundation;
Ontario Psychological Association;
Canadian Academy of Sport and Exercise Medicine;
and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Benefits of Concussion Baseline Testing:
Objective Data: Provides a clear reference point for an athlete’s cognitive and physical abilities before any injury occurs.
Improved Diagnosis: Helps healthcare professionals make more accurate assessments of concussions by comparing post-injury performance to baseline results.
Safer Return-to-Play Decisions: Helps in determining when it is safe for an athlete to return to their sport, reducing the risk of further injury.
Enhanced Education: Offers an opportunity to teach athletes about concussion risks and proper management.
Injury Prevention: Contributes to overall athlete safety by promoting early detection and intervention for concussions.
What is a Concussion Baseline Test?
A concussion baseline test is a comprehensive assessment conducted at the start of a sports season or activity to evaluate an athlete’s cognitive and physical functioning. A baseline test measures various aspects, including:

Balance;
Concentration;
Memory (short and long term);
Reaction time;
Neurocognitive performance;
and visual processing.
The goal of baseline testing is to establish a clear reference point for the athlete’s normal performance levels. If a concussion occurs, the results from the baseline test can be compared to post-injury assessments to aid in decision-making regarding return-to-play protocols. Baseline testing is an essential tool for healthcare professionals to ensure the safety and well-being of athletes, helping to prevent further injury during recovery.

Why Choose Sheddon for Concussion Baseline Testing?
Concussion Baseline Testing

Here is a list of reasons to choose Sheddon Physiotherapy and Sports Clinics for your baseline testing needs:

Comprehensive Testing: We offer a thorough and comprehensive concussion baseline test.
Expertly Trained Staff: All therapists at Sheddon have completed extensive training with the Complete Concussion Management program, ensuring they are well-versed in the latest research-based concussion management strategies.
Proven Track Record: We have successfully treated hundreds of sports-related concussions, demonstrating our expertise and effectiveness in concussion care.
chiropractic care, chiropractor to Specialists: Our extensive network includes a sports medicine physician, vestibular physiotherapists, chiropractors, and athletic therapists, providing comprehensive support for concussion management.
Commitment to Athlete Safety: Our focus is on ensuring the safety and well-being of athletes through effective baseline testing and management strategies.
Convenient Locations: We have two convenient locations in Oakville and Burlington, making it easy for athletes to access our services.
Flexible Scheduling: If you can’t attend one of our team events we do offer individual assessments with our therapists any day of the week, providing flexibility to accommodate busy schedules.
Sheddon is excited to announce we will be holding a Concussion Baseline Testing Weekend on October 19th & 20th
WHO: Any athlete/any sport

Where: Sheddon Physiotherapy and Sports Clinic at 1300 Cornwall Unit 103

When: Saturday October 19th 11:00-3:00pm and Sunday October 20th 8:00am – 11:00am (you must pre-book prior to the day as space is limited – no drop ins)

Cost: 83$/athlete (covered under physiotherapy with your extended health plan)

If you are interested in participating in this event or would like to book a baseline on a different day, please contact the clinic at (905) 849-4576.

Frequently Asked Questions
Will the cost be covered through my insurance?

The cost of the baseline is covered under most Extended Health Plans since it is administered by a physiotherapist.

My child had a baseline done over a year ago, why should we do it again?

As young athletes mature, their baseline scores can change greatly from one year to the next. Therefore, it is recommended that athletes get a baseline at the beginning of each season.

My team did the impact test preseason, isn’t that good enough?

No! Computerized neuropsychological tests, such as the ImPACT test are only assessing one aspect of concussions, neurocognitive function. In order to properly manage concussions a baseline test must be multidimensional, assessing the full spectrum of concussion outcomes (i.e., balance, reaction time, visual processing, physical capacity AND neurocognitive function).

It’s not mandatory for my childs team, why should I do it?

Concussion baseline tests are becoming widely used in many sports at all levels. Although not mandatory (yet) in all high-risk sports, it is one of the most important and effective tools for concussion management. Without a baseline test there is no way to accurately know when an athlete has fully recovered from a concussion. Research has shown that concussion symptoms improve much sooner than brain recovery, which may put athletes at risk for returning to sport too quickly, especially if sport clearance is based solely on symptoms.

Do we have to come with a team?

We offer athletes the opportunity to come on a specific “concussion baseline day” at a discounted rate, but if you cannot fit that into your schedule then any of our therapists can complete the baseline on a date that works for you.

What should I bring to the Baseline Test?

Make sure you wear comfortable clothing, glasses/contacts if they are needed for reading, a cellphone (if able).

How can I prepare for the Baseline Test?

To ensure you perform your best during the concussion baseline test, aim for a good night’s sleep before the test, as fatigue can affect your cognitive performance.

Here's my website: https://www.sheddonphysio.com/oakville-chiropractor/