Investigation

Computer test helps kids with concussions

By FOX 4

CREATED Nov. 1, 2012 - UPDATED: Nov. 1, 2012

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  • A new investigation shows you the dangers of kids and concussions. Now, new information about an important tool used to diagnose concussions. Video by fox4now.com

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MILWAUKEE - A new investigation shows you the dangers of kids and concussions. Now, new information about an important tool used to diagnose concussions.
 
It's called base-line testing -- a computer program designed specifically to manage sports-related concussions by monitoring brain functions. More and more doctors in our area say it's making a big difference.
 
Edgewood High School junior Jimmy Martin has all the classic symptoms of a concussion
 
"Headache, hard to concentrate, dizziness, just kind of being out of it," listed Martine as he prepared for an important brain test.
 
Martine got a concussion playing football earlier this Fall.
 
"I was pulling on a trap play, and I just kinda like hit the guy," Martine recalled.
 
The questions on the computer test, called "ImPACT," measures Martine's reaction time, concentration and memory. His doctor will compare the results to those from the test he took before the season started as a baseline.
 
"We need to beware of what the symptoms are and try and avoid cases where the kid sustains multiple injuries to their head and not let them go back until the injury has completely recovered," explained UW Heath Sports Medicine's Dr. David Bernhardt.
 
This test and the next ones will track Martine's progress back to his baseline.
 
"The thing that's important that it was diagnosed, that he is on the road to recovery and he's gotta use his brain his whole life," said Jim Martine, Jimmy's father.
 
With the help of organizations like the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association, more and more schools in Wisconsin have concussion management plans in place, and require their athletes to take baseline tests before sports seasons.