Neurocognitive (Concussion) Baseline Testing
Each year, 1.1-1.9 sports and recreation-related concussions occur in children in the United States. Concussions can happen to any athlete in any sport.
Returning to play too soon after a concussion can lead to prolonged recovery. Rarely, it can also lead to serious life-threatening complications.
A computerized neurocognitive test is one tool, when accompanied by a thorough medical evaluation, that may assist a qualified physician with the return-to-play decision.
Baseline neurocognitive tests evaluate the healthy athlete’s decision making ability, reaction time, attention and memory. In the event of an injury, a re-test would give the doctor more information to help safely return the athlete to sports.
A neurocognitive test assesses the function of the brain and how it performs specific thought processes and behaviors. This is a computerized test.
Neurocognitive testing has been used in the evaluation of concussion for many years. Used in college and professional sports for decades, this test is currently being used in the NFL, NHL, NBA, USA Olympic Team, The Ohio State University and several area high schools.
The test used by Nationwide Children's Sports Medicine is a computerized test. The test will use words, shapes, patterns and the athlete's responses to assess decision making ability, reaction time, attention, and memory.
The athlete will have a practice session at the beginning of each section of the test so they are aware of the test rules. This test will be used as a baseline test for the healthy athlete. The entire test should take approximately 45 minutes.
The results will be compiled and remain in a HIPAA-compliant file with Nationwide Children’s Sports Medicine.
If your child has or is suspected of having a concussion, they can return for further evaluation and re-testing. We can then compare the scores to see if your child’s brain function has been affected and to what extent.
Individual athletes can complete baseline neurocognitive testing at Nationwide Children's Hospital Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center in Westerville. The fee for an individual baseline test is $15.00 per athlete.
In order for our athletic trainers to travel and administer the test, please contact us at (614) 355-6000 or ConcussionClinic@nationwidechildrens.org.
For more information regarding our Concussion Baseline Testing at Nationwide Children's Hospital Sports Medicine or for questions, please email us at ConcussionClinic@NationwideChildrens.org.
Please complete the form below and a Sports Medicine staff member will contact you to schedule an appointment.