ImPACT® Concussion Testing

The ImPACT® (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Testing) concussion evaluation system is a non-invasive, scientifically validated, web-based software test that provides the best available information for managing concussions and preventing long-term damage, benefitting persons of all ages.

Phoenix Physical therapists teamed up with the MAC Alliance (Mid-Atlantic Concussion Alliance) to use a multi-disciplinary team approach to expertly deal with concussions, from evaluation to treatment, support and follow-up care. Dr. Vincent E. Schaller formed the Mid-Atlantic Concussion (MAC) Alliance in 2011. Using new concussion technologies from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

(UPMC)’s renowned five-stage post-concussion management program, MAC Alliance members are clinical specialists who have earned the title of Credentialed ImPACT® Consultants (CIC) or ImPACT® Trained Physical Therapists (ITPT).  For more information on the MAC Alliance, visit macconcussion.com.

You should seek additional medical attention if your symptoms last more than three to five days after an injury despite brain rest or you return to school or work, and the symptoms persist or worsen.

Symptoms include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Fogginess
• Inability to tolerate car travel or crowds
• Ongoing sensitivity to light and noise
• Difficulty concentrating and reading

YOUR CONCUSSION REHABILITATION PROCESS

The current approach to concussion is no longer passive. Although brain rest is still crucial, you should initiate active physical and vestibular (dealing with balance) treatment within a few days of the injury. Walking and small group socialization is encouraged even before returning to school or work.

At Phoenix, you’ll begin with a physical therapy evaluation that includes a thorough assessment incorporating Vestibular (balance), and Oculomotor (eye motion) function plus addressing any orthopedic injuries that may have may have occurred along with the concussion injury. In addition, you will undergo an ImPACT® test to provide a baseline measurement for your rehabilitation progress. Subsequent ImPACT® testing will occur to measure your improvement objectively.  Based on your evaluation findings, your physical therapist will next design your plan of care. You should know that by choosing Phoenix, you’ve selected a physical therapist who is ITPT certified and trained in the 5 Stage UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program. This physical therapy program is specifically designed to get patients with a concussion back to regular activities safely and more quickly than other approaches.

Elements of varying intensity include:

• Aerobic conditioning
• Strengthening and stretching
• Balance activities
• Vestibular exercise and non-contact activities such as running
• Sport-specific performance training and sport-specific activities

Remember, all concussions are serious, and typically, can’t be seen on a CAT scan or MRI. You should seek medical attention if your symptoms persist longer than 3-5 days post-injury.