Concussion Baseline Testing

  • Protect your brain health with objective baseline data to safely manage a concussion. Concussion baseline testing provides objective information that assists in the management of the athlete during recovery and return to play/learning.

    A concussion, also known as a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to either the head or the body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. A concussion changes how the brain normally functions.

    Signs and symptoms of concussion include headache, nausea, fatigue, confusion or memory problems, sleep disturbances, or mood changes. Symptoms are typically noticed right after the injury, but some might not be recognized until days or weeks later. Even a mild bump on the head can have serious and long-term health effects.

    An estimated 1.6-3.8 million sports- and recreation-related concussions occur in the United States each year. In organized high school sports, concussions occur more often in competitive sports, with football accounting for more than 60% of concussions. For males, the leading cause of high school sports concussion is football. For females the leading cause of high school sports concussion is soccer. Among children and youth ages 5-18 years, the five leading sports or recreational activities which account for concussions include: bicycling, football, basketball, playground activities, and soccer.

    There is high risk for another concussion with athletes who sustain a concussion 4-6 times more likely to sustain a second concussion. Effects of concussion are cumulative in athletes who return to play prior to complete recovery, and “Second Impact Syndrome” can result in serious longterm harm or even death.

  • The baseline test is recommended for any active person (athletes, parents, coaches, etc.) age 5 and above. Although you may not experience a concussion, it is important to prepare and obtain a baseline to establish individualized data which allows healthcare providers to better manage concussion if it does occur.

  • Concussion baseline testing provides a concussion management professional information about balance, memory, processing speed, reaction time, and function prior to trauma. Baseline testing provides objective information that assists in the management of the athlete during recovery and return to play/learning.

    Baseline testing typically takes about 20 minutes and can be completed using your personal smart phone device in either an individual or group setting under the guidance and supervision of a concussion management professional. Objective insights are gathered through 40+ tests in the areas of balance, cognition, and function.

  • Generally, it is recommended that a concussion baseline be established prior to the season but baseline testing can be completed at any point during the season.

    Until age 13, athletes should get a new baseline every year. When 14 and older, a new baseline is recommended every two years.

  • Concussion baseline testing appointments are held in Mammoth Hospital's Orthopedic Clinic in the 2nd floor of the SPORT building on the hospital campus (85 Sierra Park Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546).

    Alternatively, group/team testing may occur at a separate location with advanced planning.

  • Concussion Baseline Test: $50*

    *Price includes the cost of 1 baseline test, 1 post-concussion test, and up to 5 return-to-sport management sessions with a concussion management professional.

    Group/Team and Event Testing discounts are available.

  • Participants younger than 18 years of age are required to have parental consent. This service is not typically offered to individuals younger than 14 years of age at this time.

    Participants should bring their personal smart phone device for testing if available.

  • We offer individual or group testing opportunities.

    REQUEST AN INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENT.

    VIEW AVAILABLE GROUP SESSIONS.

  • If you suspect a concussion during sport or recreation, alert your coach and seek medical attention from a healthcare provider. Only a licensed healthcare professional can diagnose and treat a concussion. Do not return to play with a known or suspected concussion until evaluated and given permission by an appropriate healthcare professional.

  • Post-concussion testing and return-to-sport consults are offered by appointment.

    REQUEST AN INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENT.