Concussion Management

McLeod Sports Medicine Physicians and Staff Have Obtained Specialized Training in ImPACT Concussion Management Thanks To Support from the McLeod Foundation.

ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing), a neurocognitive assessment tool developed at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, is the first, most-widely used, and most scientifically-validated computerized concussion evaluation system.

ImPACT testing provides a baseline record of an athlete’s cognitive function, attention, memory, reaction time, and visual processing speed. In the event of a concussion, the athlete is retested and the results are compared to the original readings. Athletes will not be returned to play until they meet their baseline test score. This process reduces the potential for further injury and long-term damage.

This 20-minute test has become a standard tool used in comprehensive clinical management of concussions for athletes of all ages. ImPACT is utilized at every level of competition from middle schools to the Olympic levels.

Signs of a concussion:

  • Confused
  • Appears to be dazed or stunned
  • Forgetful
  • Unsure
  • Answers questions slowly
  • Loses consciousness (even temporarily)
  • Shows behavior or personality changes
  • Moves clumsily
  • Forgets events prior to hit and/or after hit

Symptoms of a concussion:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Balance problems or dizziness
  • Double or fuzzy vision
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Feelings of sluggishness and/or “foggy”
  • Change in sleep pattern
  • Concentration or memory problems

For more information, call McLeod Sports Medicine at (843) 777-5139.