Head injuries and their impact on brain health are an increasing concern for athletes of all ages and experience levels.
Head impacts and concussions are some of the most common sports and recreational related injuries. It is estimated that there will be 1.8 to 3.2 million concussions among children and adolescents this year. Biking, soccer, volleyball, basketball and football activities are most dangerous to brain health. Car accidents, falls and trauma to the head can also result in concussions.
That’s why anyone who has experienced head trauma should consider having a thorough brain health exam. Children and young adults who participate in organized sports also should test their brain health as part of their sports activities -- before an injury occurs.
Numerous student athlete organizations recommend that athletes get a head injury baseline assessment that includes a balance assessment and cognitive function test.
Baseline tests are used to assess an athlete’s balance and brain function, and examine for the presence of any concussion symptoms. Results from baseline tests (or pre-injury 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.
Foresight Chiropractic Wellness Center in Gilbert, Arizona is a leading proponent of brain testing. The doctors use the ClearEdge Brain Health Toolkit to assess brain health. The protocol includes testing apps and questionnaires that establish baselines and track and assess brain health acutely over time.
The ClearEdge Brain Health Toolkit is also used in conjunction with cognoscopy testing – assessing brain health as part of a wellness plan for aging with cognitive, balance and blood analysis testing. It is also used as a screen for ADHD, dementia, TBI disorder and depression.
For more information on concussions and brain health, including the Clear Edge Brain Test, contact Foresight Chiropractic Wellness Center at 480-325-6977, the Valley’s premier Wellness Center. The Doctors are Board Certified Atlas Orthogonal upper cervical specialists who have been serving the community for over 19 years.
