Complete Concussion Management
Through Complete Concussion Management our clinic is certified to diagnosis, treat and manage concussion and post concussion syndrome. We offer return-to-sport guidelines, return-to-school guidelines, concussion treatments and baseline testing.
Complete Concussion Management is a network with over 180 clinics nationwide; through this network we have access to a variety of specialists to help in the treatment and prevention of concussions.
What is a Concussion?
A concussion can be simply defined as a disruption in neurological functioning following a significant impact to the head or elsewhere on the body. This causes an imbalance in molecules within the brain cells as well as an energy deficit (The energy molecule required for cell function is known as ATP). There has also been shown to be large reductions in blood flow to the brain immediately afterconcussive impact.
A cause for concern
The biggest concern surrounding concussion comes from the energy deficit that occurs following injury. Following a suspected injury, a player should be immediately removed from play, assessed, and placed on complete rest in order to recover from the energy deficit. Studies have shown that any activity, both mental and physical, can delay the process of recovery and should be avoided until the athlete is completely symptom free. It is also well known that the brain is very vulnerable during this period of recovery. Because the brain is already in a state of imbalance accompanied by low ATP levels, another impact to the head during this time will cause an even greater imbalance and greater overall ATP decline. This results in significantly longer recovery times and potentially devastating permanent consequences. Studies suggest that even a lesser impact can cause injury during this time. The most important factor surrounding these injuries, therefore, is ensuring a full and adequate recovery before returning to activities where you could potentially suffer an injury.
What is a baseline test?
Baseline testing is an important component to a comprehensive concussion management program. Baseline tests are given to athletes’ PRE-season to establish an individual athlete’s normal, pre-injury performance and to provide the most accurate and reliable benchmark against which post-injury assessments can be compared. This allows more appropriate decisions to be made regarding when the athlete has fully recovered and can return to play. The traditional Impact Test that is still used has been shown through research to not be a valid stand alone test, which many associations have solely been using. Complete Concussion Management has developed an extremely comprehensive baseline, in order to best diagnose and understand an athlete’s baseline capabilities.
Our Mission
To remain updated on current research in order to manage these injuries properly and safely to ensure adequate recovery, thereby limiting the risk of further
Injury and long-term brain damage, through:
- In-depth, comprehensive baseline testing
- Proper progression through return-to-learn and return-to-play stages following injury
- Neurorehabilitation of any deficiencies or longer duration symptoms
BIHC is the preferred centre for concussion management at Belleville General Hospital & Trenton Memorial Hospital.