Concussion testing

At Children’s Health, our sports medicine physicians evaluate every athlete with a suspected concussion. Our concussion tests use the latest technology, including C3 Logix and ImPACT® concussion testing platforms. To get an accurate diagnosis, we evaluate patients within 3 types of concussion tests:

• Neurocognitive testing: This is a computerized test, lasting about 20 to 30 minutes, that evaluates your child’s brain functioning.
• Balance testing: We evaluate 2 components of balance (one involving the inner ear and the other testing how your eyes communicate with your brain).
• Neurological function testing: In this question-and-answer test, doctors assess your child’s mental status to determine if your child’s ability to process information has been affected.

Treatments and services

Every concussion is different, and every child who’s experienced a concussion requires an individualized treatment plan. Our sports concussion specialists customize treatment plans based on the child’s symptoms and test results. Concussion treatment services include:

• Vestibular physical therapy: These are exercises that retrain the body’s balance system to correct balance problems or headaches.
• Ocular physical therapy: These eye exercises treat any visual disturbances caused by a concussion and can improve dizziness symptoms.
• Pain medication management, if indicated, helps your child stay comfortable.
• Physical and mental rest allows your child’s brain to recover from the concussion.

Concussion resources

• Tips for Teachers
• Concussion Care Timeline
• Return to Learn
• Tips for Coaches
• Tips for Recovery
• Physical Therapy
• Facts and Tips
• Return to Play