Concussion Impact Testing
Concussion Facts
A concussion is caused by a blow or motion to the head or body that disrupts the normal functioning of the brain and can cause significant and sustained neurological impairments. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 300,000 concussions are sustained during sports-related activity in the United States. Out of these 300,000 incidences, it is estimated that more than 62,000 of these concussions occur from contact sport related injuries in student athletes. In 2010, the NJ state legislature developed a Concussion Law that has been mandated in interscholastic sports programs to remove a student athlete that has a concussion from competition, practice, or return to play until they are evaluated and cleared by a physician that specializes in the evaluation and management of concussions. The growing need for concussion management has made New Jersey just one of 31 states that have mandated a concussion law in it's legislature since 2009.
Video - Dangers Of Concussions In Young Athletes
Dr. John Shumko, Medical Director of Sports Injury and Assessment at the Matthew J. Morahan III Health Assessment Center for Athletes at RWJBarnabas, talks about the dangers of concussions in young athletes and a bill that would require students who have suffered concussions to get permission from a health care professional before returning to school.
ImPACT Testing
Major Support for These Screenings Provided by Qual Care
According to the latest research, the gold standard of post-concussion management combines neuro-cognitive testing (ImPACT) and graded return to play protocols prior to returning to physical activity and competition. Neuro-cognitive testing is offered for student-athletes ages 10 and up at baseline and after sustaining a concussion. Testing is done through our ImPACT computer based software. ImPACT is a non-invasive test that tracks information such as memory, reaction time, speed, and concentration. At the Morahan Center, our physicians value ImPACT testing as a helpful tool for assessment. Physicians trained in interpretation of the ImPACT test compare baseline and post injury results to assist in post-concussion management and in the development of individualized return to play time lines. A prescription is required for post injury testing.
To schedule an ImPACT baseline screening or post injury test at the Ambulatory Care Center please call 973-322-7913 prompt 1.