An estimated 10 million people a year suffer from a traumatic brain injury. One of the leading causes of brain injuries is sport-induced concussion. Many times the athlete does not realize he or she has had a concussion, is not diagnosed properly, and continues playing in the game.
There is a new test named ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) that can help diagnose a concussion and help guide the athlete when they are sufficiently ready to return to normal activities. The ImPACT test measures cognitive functioning aspects such as attention span, response time, non-verbal problem solving, attention time, and reaction time. The ImPACT test works best if the athlete has taken pre-injury test so that it can be compared with their post-injury test. The assessment test can be administered by anyone who has been trained to do so such as school nurses, athletic department trainers, and directors.
ImPACT passport is a mobile application for users who have purchased the assessment test. According to ImPACT Applications “ImPACT Passport allows anyone who has taken an ImPACT neurocognitive test to manage their baseline and post injury test results, record symptoms and locate a care provider.”
Even brain injuries that are considered minor can have severe impacts later in life. The effect of multiple brain injuries and concussions can result in long term neurological and cognitive deficits. If you or someone you know has suffered a brain injury, contact an attorney at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner by calling (713) 222-7211 or toll free at 713-222-7211.