KORT 02: Rushin' to Prevent Concussions

KORT: The Best in Rehab Podcast

Football season is finally here! With football season comes Friday night lights, Saturday tailgates, and fall weather. However, football also brings about injuries, specifically concussions. The Best in Rehab podcast hosts, Steven Hnat and Chad Garvey, discuss concussions with their guest, Stephanie Johnson. Stephanie begins her interview explaining the significance of the imPACT test (6:30), which provides clinical information about the athlete. This test provides a baseline of reaction time, memory, and processing speed that can be referenced if a player has been concussed. The imPACT test is utilized by the physician in order to abide by the return to play protocol. This test should be taken during pre-season and is secured in a data-base upon completion. How is the imPACT Test administered (7:32)? This is a 30-40 minute, computer-based assessment and is accessible at any KORT location. Another test that Stephanie references is the SCAT 5 (14:05). This is often performed on the sidelines. It is important that an athletic trainer is present on the sidelines to initiate this assessment and recognize any of the 25 concussion symptoms (10:48). The SCAT 5 evaluates symptoms and tests the player’s cognitive state, balance, and memory. The first 24 to 48 hours after a concussion should be spent resting. The player should not engage in their sport or other activities until further assessment. After 7 to 10 days, about 80% of players are symptom free. In the state of Kentucky, a physician’s clearance is required before returning back to the field (16:49). The patient should seek vestibular rehabilitation if he or she is still experiencing symptoms after that 7 to 10 day mark. The VOMS (17:48) and Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Tests (18:22) are also referenced in this episode. The Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test entails 20 minutes on the treadmill while increasing the grade. Concussions are a concern, especially for young athletes. As important as it is to treat them, we also strive to prevent them. In order to minimize concussions, coaches must approach this topic while players are young (22:35). Also, teaching proper technique and conditioning the players is important. For more information, visit our website at kort.com or stop by a clinic today!