Concussion Testing

Impact Neurocognitive Test
Before And After Concussions

Overview And Features

ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) is the first, most widely used and most scientifically validated computerized concussion evaluation system available @ WEST-FIT PHYSIOTHERAPY & SPORTS INJURY

Developed in the early 1990;s by Drs. Mark Lovell and Joseph Maroon, ImPACT is a 20 minute test that has become a standard tool used in comprehensive clinical management of concussions for athletes of all ages. ImPACT Applications, Inc. was co-founded by Mark Lovelle, PhD, Joseph Maroon, MD and Michael (Mickey) Collins, PhD.

This test assists to manage concussions on an individualized basis via implementing baseline testing which allows for better decision-making post-concussion.  THIS HELPS CUMULATIVE TRAUMA VIA RE-INJURY.

The ImPact Neurocognitive Test has been called the “cornerstone” of proper concussion management by an international panel of sports medicine experts

Given the inherent difficulties in concussion management, it is important to manage concussions on an individualized basis and to implement baseline testing and/or post-injury neurocognitive testing. This type of concussion assessment can help to objectively evaluate the concussed athlete’s post-injury condition and track recovery for safe return to play, thus preventing the cumulative effects of concussion. In fact, neurocognitive testing has recently been called the “cornerstone” of proper concussion management by an international panel of sports medicine experts.

ImPact Neurocognitive Test can be administered at Westfit Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic by a physiotherapists who have completed training in the administration of the test. Post-concussion care and the management of concussion should only be administered by a trained medical professional.

ImPact Neurocognitive Test assists doctors in making return-to-play decisions and should never be used a stand-alone tool.

ImPact Neurocognitive Test  is utilized by:

  • NHL
  • 24 teams of NFL
  • all Major baseball teams
  • more than 17 Major Leaague Soccer teams
  • 7 teams of National Basketball Association
  • 26 professional Rugby teams
  • all OHL clubs
  • many AHL clubs
  • Cirque de Soleil
  • World Wrestling Entertainment
  • Saskatchewan Roughriders
  • Montreal Alouettes
  • US Army and Navy
  • many other AHL teams, ECHL teams, and other sports too numerous to list

Administration at West-Fit Physiotherapy:

  • both baseline (preseason) and post-injury tests performed by trained physiotherapist
  • results can be forwarded as needed to physician
  • cost for baseline test – usually less than $40.00

Measured:

  • verbal and visual memory
  • procession speed
  • reaction time
  • attention span
  • sustained and selective attention time
  • non-verbal problem-solving
  • response variablility

All tests are stored in data-base and thus repeat testing can be monitored and past results can be used by family physician, sports physician, neurologist, etc.

The test is considered physiotherapy assessment by most third-party insurance companies.