by Dr. Lisa Brekke, PT, DPT

When athlete’s step on the field, court, etc. they run the risk of experiencing a concussion. When a concussion occurs what happens next is extremely important. To recover successfully it is very helpful to have data to inform a plan of care. This is why we believe baseline testing is crucial. In this post I will discuss what a concussion is and the importance of baseline testing.

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when a blow or jolt to the head causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull. This sudden motion can lead to a variety of neurological symptoms, ranging from headaches and dizziness to more severe cognitive impairments. Concussions can happen in various settings, including sports, car accidents, and falls, and while many people recover with rest and care, it’s important to take the proper steps to assess and manage the injury. One such step is baseline testing, which plays a vital role in ensuring proper recovery and protecting against further injury.

What is a Concussion?

A concussion occurs when the brain is impacted by an external force, resulting in temporary brain dysfunction. Symptoms can be present immediately or develop hours or days after the injury, and can include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Memory loss
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Nausea or vomiting
• Emotional disturbances (e.g., irritability, anxiety)

While many people experience mild symptoms that are resolved within a few days or weeks, there are factors that can lead to a prolonged recovery. It is important to treat concussions as soon as possible to improve recovery.

What is Baseline Testing?

Baseline testing refers to a series of pre-injury assessments aimed at measuring an individual’s brain function before any potential head injury occurs. These tests are typically conducted by a healthcare professional, often in the context of sports, but they can be valuable for anyone who may be at risk of head injury. The goal is to establish a “baseline” or normal cognitive function level for the person.

The tests typically measure a variety of aspects related to brain function, including:

• Cognitive abilities: Memory, attention, and processing speed.
• Balance: The ability to maintain physical equilibrium.
• Neurocognitive performance: Decision-making, reaction time, and concentration.
• Symptom reporting: Self-reported feelings of dizziness, headaches, or other cognitive symptoms.

At Kinetic Edge Physical Therapy, we utilize SWAY Medical for all baseline testing both in clinic and in the schools that we work with.

The Importance of Baseline Testing

1. Accurate Comparison for Post-Injury Assessment
   • If an individual suffers a concussion, baseline testing can provide valuable data to compare their current condition with their pre-injury state. This comparison helps medical professionals assess the symptoms and impact of the concussion and track recovery. Without baseline data, it’s much more difficult to understand how significant the changes in brain function are after an injury.

2. Early Detection of Cognitive Impairment
   • Concussions can lead to subtle changes in cognitive functions, which might not be immediately obvious to the individual. Baseline testing provides a reference point, so healthcare providers can detect even small impairments. This early detection is crucial for preventing further complications and ensuring the brain has adequate time to heal.

3. Guiding Return-to-Play Decisions
   • In sports, it’s critical that athletes don’t return to play before they have fully recovered from a concussion. Returning too soon can lead to a higher risk of re-injury or a more severe brain injury. Baseline testing helps determine whether an athlete has returned to their normal cognitive function and physical abilities, ensuring they are truly ready to resume normal activities safely.

4. Establishing a Standard of Care
   • By using baseline testing, doctors and healthcare providers can establish a standardized approach to concussion management. This allows for more consistent and accurate treatment decisions, whether in sports, work, or everyday life. It also helps educate athletes, parents, and coaches about the importance of recognizing and properly managing concussions.

Conclusion

Concussions are serious injuries that require careful management and attention. Baseline testing offers an essential tool for monitoring an individual’s brain health before and after a concussion. Whether you’re a coach, parent, athlete, or just someone concerned about head injuries, understanding the importance of baseline testing and utilizing it as part of a concussion management plan can significantly improve outcomes and promote long-term brain health.

By prioritizing concussion safety and investing in baseline testing, we can better protect athletes and individuals from the risks of head injuries and provide more effective recovery strategies when needed.

If you are interested in doing baseline testing with Kinetic Edge Physical Therapy please reach out online or call 866-588-0230.

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