Baseline Concussion Testing
Baseline concussion testing measures your brain function in a normal, healthy state, prior to any injury or suspected concussive event.
In the event you are diagnosed with a concussion at a later time, Dr. Manderino and Dr. Ramirez will utilize your baseline concussion testing results to aid in their treatment protocol and treatment decisions. It will also impact the individualized treatment algorithm for you based on the comparison between your baseline and post-injury ImPACT test.
ImPACT Baseline Testing
At Aptiva Health Sports Medicine, we utilize the ImPACT program for both baseline and post-injury concussion testing. The baseline ImPACT® test is a equivalent to a preseason physical of the brain for athletes, or other individuals, that tracks information such as memory, reaction time, speed, and concentration. It's not an IQ or full neuropsychological evaluation, but rather a tool that can be compared with a later ImPACT test taken after a suspected concussion.
What do baseline concussion tests measure?
ImPACT baseline testing assesses an individual’s visual and verbal memory, reaction time, and processing speed before a head injury.
How often should concussion baseline testing be repeated?
Research suggests that baseline testing should be completed annually.
Who benefits from concussion baseline testing?
In short, all parties involved in the testing benefit. The test taker benefits from getting highly-personalized and tailored concussion care that may result in faster recovery in the event of a head injury.
The schools or organizations administering baseline testing benefit from knowing they’re giving their students, employees, or frontline responders the best possible chance of a quick and successful recovery if a concussion occurs. It also helps protect schools, organizations, clubs, and employers from liability when utilized properly as part of a comprehensive concussion protocol.
The healthcare provider benefits from having an additional piece of objective information that helps them understand an individual’s pre-injury state. Having this information allows them to more accurately identify cognitive deficits the patient is experiencing and return them to their “normal”.
Is ImPACT baseline testing valid and reliable?
Research and empirical data support the importance of using valid and reliable tools for concussion baseline testing and post-concussion care. ImPACT is research-backed and has received clearance from regulatory bodies worldwide. Additionally, ImPACT has built in validity indicators to detect sandbagging, which is when a test taker is not putting forth their best effort.
We offer Walk-in care for concussion baseline testing with ImPACT during the following hours:
Tuesdays 8am - 3:30pm
Wednesdays 8am - 3:30pm
Fridays 8am - 3:30pm
Schedule Your ImPACT Baseline Test Below
Our Concussion Care Team
Lisa Manderino, PhD
Director of Concussion Care
Nathan Ramirez, PsyD Neuropsychologist
Robert Williams, MD
General & Sports Medicine
Simon Hoehn, PT, DPT
Director of Physical Therapy
Jared Simpson, PT, DPT
Director of Vestibular Therapy
Helen Jiang, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist
Frequently Asked Questions About Baseline Concussion Testing
Q. What is baseline concussion testing?
A. Baseline concussion testing is a pre-injury assessment that measures important brain functions such as memory, reaction time, attention span, and processing speed. These results provide a personalized benchmark that can help healthcare providers evaluate cognitive changes after a suspected concussion.
Q. What is ImPACT® Testing?
A. ImPACT® (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) is a computerized neurocognitive assessment designed specifically for concussion and mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). It is widely used by healthcare providers, schools, athletic programs, and sports organizations to support concussion management decisions.
Q. Why is baseline concussion testing important?
A. Every brain is different. Baseline testing gives providers individualized data to compare after a head injury instead of relying only on symptoms or generalized averages. This can help support safer return-to-school, return-to-work, and return-to-play decisions.
Q. Who should get baseline concussion testing?
A. Baseline concussion testing is recommended for:
Student athletes
Youth sports participants
Collegiate athletes
Individuals in high-impact or contact sports
Workers in physically demanding environments
Anyone with a history of concussions
Q. How long does baseline concussion testing take?
A. Most baseline concussion tests can be completed in approximately 20–30 minutes.
Q. Do I need to have a concussion to take the test?
A. No. Baseline testing is designed to be completed before an injury occurs. The goal is to establish your normal cognitive performance so future comparisons can be more accurate if a concussion is suspected.
Q. What happens if I get a concussion after completing baseline testing?
A. If a concussion is suspected, your healthcare provider may repeat the test and compare the results to your baseline assessment. This comparison helps identify changes in memory, reaction time, and cognitive function that may occur after a head injury.
Q. Is baseline concussion testing only for athletes?
A. No. While commonly used in sports medicine, baseline concussion testing can also benefit adults and teens in occupations or activities where head injuries are possible.
Q. How often should baseline concussion testing be updated?
A. Many athletes and active individuals update their baseline test every 1–2 years, especially during adolescence when the brain is still developing.
Q. Is ImPACT® Testing FDA-cleared?
A. Yes. ImPACT® is the only computerized neurocognitive test with FDA clearance specifically for concussion and mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).
Q. Does insurance cover baseline concussion testing?
A. Coverage may vary depending on your insurance plan and the reason for testing. Our team can help answer questions about scheduling and payment options.
Q. How do I schedule baseline concussion testing?
A. Scheduling is simple. Contact Aptiva Health or request an appointment online to get started with baseline concussion testing.
Ready to schedule baseline concussion testing?
Protect your performance with data-backed concussion assessment at Aptiva Health. Schedule Today.