When an athlete suffers from an orthopedic injury, they go through testing to determine if they are safe to return to their sport. The most common example of this is when an athlete tears their ACL and has to pass a variety of tests to show that they are capable of safely returning to their sport.
Why should concussions be any different?
There is a misconception that once an individual is symptom free following a concussion, they are ready to return to activity and sport. Decisions made solely based on symptoms can be inadequate. Symptoms are subjective and do not accurately depict the physiological time frame of recovery. A patient may feel as though they have returned to their normal self, however there may still be some cognitive, visual, or vestibular abnormalities not sensed with everyday challenges.
The brain is still vulnerable while it is still in recovery.
When another trauma occurs before full recovery has taken place, it can lead to an extended time frame of symptoms, additional damage to the brain, and in some cases, death. A study recently showed that performing physical exertion testing in concussion protocols can prevent ~15% of high-risk athletes from returning to sport too soon.
So what is exertion testing?
Exertion testing consists of a cardiovascular portion, vestibular/ocular motor testing, dynamic circuit, functional testing, and sport specific drills. Before and throughout the testing process, vitals and self reported symptoms are recorded. In order to pass testing, the athlete must remain symptom free throughout the testing and for the 24 hours following. The athlete must also complete the tests with good form and mental competence.
Utilization of physical exertion testing is one key component of a concussion protocol.
Contact FX Physical Therapy if you have any questions regarding our concussion protocol!
