Vol. 5: Why Baseline Test for Concussion?
Sport-related concussions occur approximately 1.6–3.8 million times annually in the United States, according to the CDC. Over the last 10 years performing concussion baseline testing has become popular, and in many cases, mandatory in collegiate sports. Baseline testing is supported by the CDC as a way to assess balance and brain function (including learning and memory skills, ability to concentrate, and ability to make decisions ) as well as for the presence of any concussion symptoms. Results from baseline tests can be used and compared to a similar exam conducted if a person has a suspected injury. Despite the most common use of baseline testing in sports, establishing a brain baseline is recommended for any individual between the ages of 10-59, particularly those who are physically active. Testing prior to age 10 and after age 59 lacks reliability due to cognitive development and decline.
Happy Brain Physical Therapy has developed The Healthy Brain Baseline that consists of 3 objective outcome measures: SCAT5, VOMS, and Fukuda step test. Here’s a closer look at each test:
SCAT5
The most widely used concussion assessment tool used in sport is currently SCAT5. The test includes Maddocks Questions for Memory Assessment, the Glascow Coma Scale, a symptom evaluation, the Standardized Assessment of Concussion, the modified Balance Error Scoring System, a cervical spine assessment, a 10-word list for the immediate memory and delayed recall, and a neurological screening. The test takes around 10 minutes to complete. You can find a copy of the test here.
VOMS
The Vestibular Ocular Motor Screening Tool (VOMS) was developed by concussion experts at UPMC and looks at the systems involved in integrating balance, vision, and movement. Studies performed at UPMC showed this tool was 90% accurate in diagnosing people with concussion. According to the UPMC study vision issues, fogginess, and dizziness are often symptoms linked to a prolonged recovery after concussion. The VOMS screening tool examines five areas of vestibular (balance) and ocular (vision) motor impairment:
Smooth pursuits
Rapid eye movements (saccades)
Near point of convergence
Vestibular Ocular Reflex (VOR)
Visual motion sensitivity
The VOMS isolates and properly assesses these areas to help us better manage concussions.
You can find the test here
Fukuda Step Test
Your vestibular system is the sensory system that helps you maintain balance. The Fukuda Step Test test is used to determine if there is peripheral vestibular dysfunction, or weakness on one side of your body. More specifically it assesses labyrinthine function via the vestibulospinal reflexes.
A rotation greater than 30 degrees (if taking 50 steps) is considered a positive Fukuda, indicating peripheral vestibular dysfunction likely consistent with the side to which the patient has rotated.
You can find more information here
At Happy Brain Physical Therapy we offer The Healthy Brain Baseline which includes SCAT5, Fukuda, and VOMS. It’s recommended that active individuals ages 10-59 perform yearly brain baseline tests. You do not need to be an athlete or part of a team to benefit from testing. If you are part of a team or an organization that would like to set up a group testing please send a message.
To book online please visit: https://happybrainpt.embodiaapp.com/
Questions? Call 203 822 2098 or email annie@happybrainpt.com
