Concussions can occur in any sport or physical activity. As children and athletes of all ages are playing longer and harder than ever before, the potential for concussion (classified as a mild traumatic brain injury -TBI), continues to increase.
OUR OFFICE IS A CREDENTIALED ImPACT CONSULTANT (CIC)
What does that mean?
It means that we have the ability to administer Baseline and Post Injury Concussion testing using ImPACT® –the most-widely used and scientifically validated computerized concussion evaluation system. The NFL, MLB and NASCAR all use this system for assessing Baselines and Post Injury results to determine a safe return to sports/physical activity.
What is a Neurocognitive Baseline Test?
ImPACT® is a computerized exam utilized in many professional, collegiate, and high school sports programs across the country to successfully diagnose and manage concussions. If an athlete is believed to have suffered a head injury during competition, ImPACT® is used to help determine the severity of head injury and when the injury has fully healed.
Where can an athlete/player take an ImPACT® baseline test?
Baseline and Post Injury testing can be scheduled at any of our locations. Call 301-681-6000 for our Silver Spring location or 301-990-1664 for our Rockville location.
Why should my athlete/player take an ImPACT® baseline test?
To gather important data to better manage concussion. A baseline test outlines how a player’s brain functions free of injury. This data is compared to post-injury data to determine the severity of a concussion.
What age group is appropriate for taking ImPACT® baseline and post-injury tests?
Children First offers baseline and post-injury tests to players who are 11 to 24. The test cannot be administered to younger players, it is geared for children ages 11-24. A pediatric version of the test is coming but we are unsure of when this will be available right now. If your child is on medication for ADD/ADHD please make sure they are taking their meds so that the baseline is the most accurate. It is important that any child scheduled to take the baseline test get a good night sleep the night before.
How long does it take to take the test/what does the test involve?
Most people finish a baseline test in less than 40 minutes. It is a non-invasive test is set up in “video-game” type format. It is simple, and actually many athletes enjoy the challenge of taking the test. Essentially, the ImPACT® test is a preseason physical of the brain.
What does the test measure and are there risks?
The test measures multiple aspects of cognitive functioning in athletes, including attention span, working memory, sustained and selective attention time, response variability, non-verbal problem solving and reaction time. ImPACT® testing is non-invasive and poses no risk to the athlete.
How much does it cost to take the test?
There will be a $30 fee for Baseline ImPACT® testing. Post-Injury ImPACT® testing is billed to your insurance. Please review your insurance benefits for information regarding coverage under your plan. You will receive a hard copy at the appointment. You can also choose to have a copy emailed to you so that you can access these results whenever you need them. Baseline testing should be done every 2 years.
What if I don’t have a baseline on my child and they suffer a head injury?
ImPACT® has a very large amount of normative data available for athletes 11 and older, so if an athlete does not have a baseline they still should receive a post injury test. Our program allows you to compare the athletes post injury test to individuals like themselves to help provide an additional assessment tool to their medical licensed provider.
For more information, you may contact our office by email at doctors@childrenfirstpediatrics.com or call the office to speak to our staff.