New Diagnostic Tool Can Give Initial Assessment in 1-2 Minutes
There’s a new diagnostic test being used to determine if individuals who have received a bump to the head in contact sports may have suffered a concussion. Researchers say it doesn’t provide conclusive proof of a concussion, but can be effective in identifying early warning signs, so that athletes who fail the test won’t be sent back into competition, risking serious brain injury.
The Problem
Over the past couple of decades, the evidence has continued to mount showing the prevalence of long-term consequences of head trauma in athletes who participate in high-impact contact sports. Data indicates that about 20% of all athletes in contact sports suffer some type of concussion during their careers. It’s long been understood that individuals who have suffered one concussion are more susceptible to subsequent concussions. Furthermore, in the immediate aftermath of a concussion, when the brain has not had time or opportunity to heal, the risk of far more serious injury is significantly higher. Athletes who have suffered repeated head trauma are far more likely to develop a form of dementia known as CTE, or chronic traumatic encephalopathy, which can lead to memory loss, confusion, seizures, Parkinson’s disease and emotional instability.
The Test
Known as the King-Devick, or K-D test, the new tool evaluates a person’s eye movement to assess the likelihood of a concussion. It’s a pretty straightforward process. Before athletic competition, an athlete is asked to read a series of number on three different index cards and is timed. After any contact that involves a blow to the head, the athlete takes the same test again. If he or she is five seconds or more slower in completing the test, it’s highly probable that there’s been a concussion. In research conducted at New York University’s Langone Medical Center, the test was given to 332 high school and college athletes. Researchers say the accuracy rate was approximately 92%, far better than any other diagnostic approach.
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer any type of concussion, TBI or traumatic brain injury. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas and San Antonio.
