Concussion evaluation services with the
Institute for Sports Medicine
What is a concussion?
A concussion is an injury to the brain caused by a blow or jolt to the head.
A concussion can have effects on an athlete's physical, cognitive and emotional
functioning. Symptoms vary from person to person and can last from a few minutes
to many months. The most common symptoms include headache, dizziness, blurred
vision, fatigue, nausea/vomiting, difficulty concentrating, memory deficits,
sleep disturbance and mood changes. While some children lose consciousness
briefly at the time of injury, it is important to know that the majority of
concussions do not involve any loss of consciousness. You do not
have to lose consciousness to have a concussion.
Why is it important to have a concussion evaluated?
Symptoms of a concussion can be subtle and difficult to detect. These
symptoms can interfere with a child's ability to function in school, at home or
in sports. Appropriate evaluation and treatment of the symptoms of concussion is
essential to ensure complete recovery and safe return to activities. A child who
returns to activity before complete recovery from a concussion is at risk for
prolonged symptoms. If a second head injury occurs before complete recovery from
the initial concussion, permanent neurocognitive deficits can result.
What happens during an evaluation?
The evaluation is conducted by a pediatric sports medicine specialist and includes a comprehensive review of the athlete's injury and
symptoms, a thorough physical and neurological examination, and an assessment of
neuropsychological and cognitive functioning using ImPACT, a computer-based testing technique. Results of the
evaluation are reviewed with the athlete and family. A treatment plan is
provided, including management of symptoms and a timeline for return to sports
and activities. Consultation with a neuropsychologist is available to assist
with management of prolonged cognitive and emotional
difficulties.