OAA to offer free baseline ImPACT Testing
Download the parental consent form here.
Below is a letter from OAA Orthopaedic Specialists regarding a new free program they offering in conjunction with the Jim Thorpe Football Program:
In the United States, the annual incidence of high school sports-related concussions affects approximately 300,000 students. Estimates regarding the likelihood of an athlete in a contact sport experiencing a concussion may be as high as 19% per season. Research performed by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) concludes that as many as one in five high school football players will experience a concussion this year.
Once an athlete has sustained a concussion, they may begin to suffer from Post Concussion Syndrome, with symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, sleep difficulties, personality change, and sensitivity to light/noise or deficits in memory or problem-solving abilities.
In response to the increasing number (and severity) of concussions each year, many of the professional sports leagues—including the NFL, NHL, WWE, and NCAA—have adopted ImPACT™ testing, which is a neurocognitive test developed for the management of sports-related concussions.
OAA Orthopaedic Specialists, in partnership with your high school Coach and Athletic Director, is excited to offer ImPACT™ testing for your athlete free of charge.
Below are common questions asked about ImPACT testing:
1. How is ImPACT testing performed?
a. ImPACT is a computer-based program that will be administered at your local high school by OAA’s ImPACT-certified Staff.
2. What is the process of Impact testing?
a. A 20-30 minute computer-based test will be performed at your local high school to determine your child’s regular brain function. In the event of a concussion, this test will allow a comparison of the post -concussion brain function of your athlete. Essentially, the baseline test is used 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. Prior to the athlete’s post-concussion release to participate in sports, the athlete’s neurocognitive function would need to return to these baseline scores.
3. Once the baseline test is completed, are there follow-up tests?
a. If the athlete does not sustain a concussion, then there are no follow-up tests. Once the athlete sustains a concussion, he or she will be evaluated by either your team physician or a member of OAA’s ImPACT-certified staff. Once an athlete is symptom-free, arrangements will be made for a post-injury impact test. This test, along with physical exam findings, will determine the athlete’s ability to safely return to sports participation.
4. Where will the follow-up tests take place?
a. The follow-up impact test—as well as the physical exam—will likely take place at OAA’s medical offices. A follow-up ImPACT test alone can be performed at your high school.
5. Does the PIAA require pre-participation ImPACT testing?
a. The PIAA has established guidelines for the management of concussions; however, they have not mandated neurocognitive testing. At present, State Representative Tim Briggs of Montgomery County has introduced HB 2060, which would mandate evaluation and clearance by a healthcare professional prior to an athlete’s return to play once a concussion has been sustained.
6. Can I choose to NOT have my child tested?
a. Yes. However, in the event that your child experiences a concussion, you would be responsible for having him or her evaluated through your own healthcare provider. OAA will not evaluate or clear athletes who do not have baseline tests performed.
7. What is the cost of the baseline ImPACT test?
a. The cost is FREE. As a service to our high schools, OAA is offering the baseline test at no charge. If needed, the subsequent evaluation and testing will likely be performed at your convenience during an OAA office visit.
In the next few weeks, OAA will begin to finalize testing dates with your Team Coach and school Athletic Director. Enclosed please find an information packet about ImPACT testing. You may also visit www.impacttest.com. Also enclosed is consent form that you should sign and return if you elect to have your child tested.
Sincerely,
Mark D. Brayford, DO, ATC
Medical Director, OAA Concussion Program
Download the parental consent form here.
