What Is Concussion Baseline Testing?
Baseline testing is an exam done by trained health care staff to assess an athlete's “normal" brain function in a healthy state.
The test measures such things as:
- Concentration and attention span.
- Learning and memory.
- Reaction time.
- Any concussion-like symptoms, such as headaches or trouble falling asleep.
HeadsUP Pittsburgh uses a computer-based test called ImPACT® (immediate post-concussion assessment and cognitive testing) to get the athlete's baseline score.
We give the test before a head injury occurs and use the data:
- To compare in the instance of a future sustained concussion.
- As part of a complete post-concussion assessment to plan the best course for recovery.
Concussion experts designed the ImPACT (ages 10+) and Pediatric ImPACT (ages 5 to 9) tests. They're the most effective tools available for measuring a person's neurocognitive state before a concussion occurs.
The tests alone do not diagnose, detect, or prevent concussions. Experts use the data as a benchmark to decide if it's safe for an athlete to return to play after a concussion.
When and Where to Take Part in HeadsUP
HeadsUP 2024 will take place Monday, June 3 through Wednesday, July 31 at the following locations. This year's participants will receive a yoga mat and core strengthening program, courtesy of the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation.
- UPMC Rooney Sports Complex (South Side – Pittsburgh)
- Adult testing (ages 10+) and pediatric testing (ages 5-9)
- UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex (Cranberry Township)
- Adult testing (ages 10+) and pediatric testing (ages 5-9)
- UPMC Children’s Hospital – South (Bridgeville)
- Pediatric testing only (ages 5-9)
- UPMC Outpatient Center (Bethel Park)
- Adult testing only (ages 10+)
- Community College of Beaver County (Monaca)
- Adult testing only (ages 10+)
- Community College of Allegheny County – North (Perry Highway, Pittsburgh)
- Adult testing only (ages 10+)
- Community College of Allegheny County – Boyce (Monroeville)
- Adult testing only (ages 10+)
- UPMC Jameson (New Castle)
- June 26 and July 24 only; adult testing only (ages 10+)
- UPMC Outpatient Center at Sterling Square (Erie)
- June 5 through July 18; adult testing only (ages 10+)
Can’t make it to HeadsUP this summer? View upcoming dates for year-round baseline concussion testing through the UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program.
Thank You to the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation
UPMC Sports Medicine is extremely grateful for the continued support from the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation in funding the HeadsUP program.
In addition to supporting several community programs like HeadsUP, the Pens Foundation provides increased exposure and education about how vital proper concussion testing and treatment is, especially in youth sports.
Concussion Resources
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