Baseline testing is a measure of a person’s balance and cognitive function prior to sustaining a concussion. Once a baseline is known for that individual’s normal level of neurocognitive functioning, the same test can be used to assess if a child/athlete has sustained a concussion, when he or she has fully recovered and can return to play.

Who should take a baseline test?

EVERYONE is susceptible to getting a concussion. Any adults who play sports or ride motorcycles, or anyone who is just looking to keep themselves safer, should have a baseline evaluation completed. Children and youth athletes are more susceptible to concussions, because of their playful lifestyle (i.e. playing on playgrounds, riding bikes, climbing trees and playing contact sports).

How often should my child/athlete be tested?

Any child/athlete under the age of 23 should have a baseline test done every two years (unless they got concussed in the season prior than they should have a subsequent one done again the next year) only because youth have normal changes neurocognitively, which would change the baseline results. Adults and professional athletes should be tested only once.

What else should do I need to know about baseline testing?

Recent research recommends three parts to every baseline test: a symptom checklist, neurocognitive testing, and a balance assessment. National Dizzy and Balance Center fulfills these three criteria through the use of ImPACT and Computerized Balance Assessment tests. In addition, each athlete receives a concussion education packet after their baseline test. Each baseline test is reviewed by a certified ImPACT specialist to ensure complete accuracy and to flag any abnormalities. Testing can be completed at any one of the four National Dizzy and Balance Centers in the metro area, and NDBC are the only facilities that can test kids as young as 5 years of age.

The National Dizzy & Balance Center will answer critical questions regarding concussions throughout the season in the Minnesota Hockey Newsletter. For more information, please visit www.stopdizziness.com or call 952-345-3000.

The National Dizzy and Balance Center (NDBC) is the official baseline testing partner of Minnesota Hockey. For more information or to hear about their team discounts for baseline testing packages at one of their four metro location, please visit NDBC at nationaldizzyandbalancecenter.com or call 952-345-3000.