Concussion Management

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Concussions are a traumatic brain injury that results in disrupted brain function. A concussion is caused by a direct blow to the head or a direct force impact to the upper body that, in turn, transmits force to the head. The injury may or may not cause a loss of consciousness. 

Most victims of a concussion are athletes participating in high-impact sports; car accidents, falls and other accidents can also cause concussions. Depending on the individual, post-concussion recovery and rehabilitation may vary. 

APEX's Dr. Lauren Lobert, PT, DPT, certified in concussion management, will design an individualized program to treat your post-concussion symptoms safely, so you can return to your normal life as soon as safely possible.  

Our patients are carefully evaluated, screened, treated and monitored until they are fully recovered.  Our concussion management patients receive:

• Cervical spine screening and rehabilitation  
• Complete evaluation and physical examination to identify the patient's specific and unique symptoms of a concussion include testing the following: 
  • Oculomotor Functions: Testing coordinated eye movements, tracking, and focusing 
  • Vestibular Evaluation: Assessment of dizziness and balance deficits 
  • Musculoskeletal Assessment: Evaluation of muscle strength and flexibility, joint mobility and range of motion  
  • Cardiovascular Response: Post-concussion individuals often experience an elevated heart rate or symptoms associated with exercise. A treadmill test, also known as a Balke Test, is performed to determine safe exercise parameters.   
• Graduated aerobic training, balance training, agility drills and sport-specific skills  
• Occulomotor screening and rehabilitation  
• Reevaluation, monitoring and documentation at each session  
• Slow to Recover and Gradual Return to Play protocols that meet all requirements established by youth and high school athletic associations  
• Vestibular screening and rehabilitation  
• Communication with the patient's physician and other healthcare providers, as well as coaches and teachers, when appropriate  

What is baseline testing?
Baseline testing is a comprehensive pre-season examination measuring an athlete's balance and brain function, including thinking, memory, concentration, and information-processing abilities.

Baseline testing generally takes place during the pre-season—ideally prior to the first practice. It is important to note that some baseline and concussion assessment tools are only suggested for use among athletes ages 10 years and older. Baseline testing is conducted by Lauren Lobert, PT, DPT; Lauren is certified in concussion management.  

Why is it important?
Results from baseline tests can be used and compared to a similar exam conducted by a health care professional during the season if an athlete has a suspected concussion. If an athlete has a suspected concussion during the season, this can help their healthcare team identify the effects and severity of the injury and make more informed return-to-school and return-to-play decisions. 

What is the cost of baseline testing?

Baseline concussion tests are $25 and are not covered by insurance.

How do I schedule a baseline test?

Call (810) 534-7004 to schedule.