Our Specialized Concussion Programs

ImPACT Testing

We offer ImPACT® (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing), the most widely used and scientifically validated computerized concussion evaluation system. This assessment helps us evaluate memory, reaction time, attention span, and processing speed to track recovery progress and make informed return-to-play decisions.

ImPACT Pediatric

For children ages 5-11, we provide ImPACT Pediatric®, the first and only FDA-cleared concussion assessment tool specifically designed for young children. This iPad-based test is simple, visual, and designed for developing brains to ensure appropriate care for our youngest patients.

Complete Concussion Management (CCMI)

As certified providers with Complete Concussion Management™ training, we offer comprehensive, research-backed care that combines education, baseline testing, post-injury assessment, and rehabilitation. Our CCMI protocols ensure safe and effective return to sport, school, or work.

Return-to-Play Support

We provide graduated return-to-activity protocols led by physical therapists trained in concussion rehabilitation, working closely with physicians, schools, and athletic trainers to ensure safe clearance.

The Importance of Baseline Testing

More people are using baseline concussion tests to be proactive about brain health. Baseline cognitive testing measures your brain function in a healthy state. If you experience a concussion, healthcare providers can compare post-injury tests to your baseline to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Baseline testing is valuable because the best comparison of a patient’s cognitive status is to themselves when healthy. Without a baseline, healthcare providers must estimate where your functioning should be, which is less precise.

Our Treatment Approach

Concussion treatment has advanced significantly in recent years. The old approach of resting in a dark room until symptoms resolved has been replaced by evidence-based rehabilitation. With proper treatment, most people feel entirely back to normal within three weeks of injury.

Individualized Care

No two concussions are the same, so treatment must be individualized. Our healthcare providers start by determining the type of concussion based on symptoms and evaluation. Once they understand your specific needs, they target areas requiring improvement.

Treatment may include:

• Brief rest period followed by gradual return to activity
• Vision therapy for visual symptoms
• Vestibular therapy for balance and dizziness issues
• Coordination with physicians for symptom management when appropriate

Benefits of Professional Treatment

Proactive concussion treatment with physical therapy helps athletes return to sports faster and more safely. Professional care can also lower the risk of second impact syndrome and reduce symptoms. For example, balance problems can be improved with just four to eight weeks of rehabilitation, compared to years if left untreated.

What to Expect During Your Visit

If you’ve hit your head and suspect a concussion, see a trained healthcare provider immediately. Your healthcare provider will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, which typically includes:

• Vestibular ocular screening
• Balance testing
• Discussion of symptoms
• Neurocognitive testing, such as ImPACT testing

CT scans or MRIs are rarely needed unless it’s a severe injury, as these scans typically cannot detect concussions.

These assessments help providers understand your specific type of concussion and recommend targeted treatment and rehabilitation. Rest is generally recommended for the first day or two, followed by a gradual return to activity while monitoring symptoms.

Recognizing Concussion Symptoms

Concussions affect each person differently, making them challenging to identify. If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, seek professional care immediately.

Symptoms Patients May Report:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Nausea
• Memory problems
• Vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Fatigue
• Concentration problems
• Irritability or anxiety
• Sleep issues
• Sensitivity to light
• Loss of balance
• Neck pain or stiffness
• Difficulty ascending or descending stairs or walking on uneven surfaces

Signs Others May Notice:

• Behavior changes
• Different sleeping patterns
• Declining academic or work performance
• Light or noise sensitivity
• Feeling worse in afternoons than mornings

Note: Loss of consciousness can occur with concussions but isn’t required for diagnosis. Some symptoms may not appear for days or weeks after injury.

Understanding Concussions

What is a Concussion?

Concussions are traumatic brain injuries caused by moving forces like a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. Each person experiences concussions differently. Some may have a headache for a few days and then return to normal, while 80% of concussions heal within a few weeks. For others, symptoms can last weeks, months, or longer without proper treatment.

Beyond Sports Injuries

While we often hear about concussions in sports, they can happen to anyone, anywhere. In fact, falls are the most common cause of concussions. They can occur in car accidents, from slipping on ice, or on playgrounds. Since there’s no guaranteed way to prevent concussions, it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms and seek professional care immediately if you suspect a concussion.