Developed by clinical experts who pioneered the field, ImPACT testing (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) is the most-widely used and most scientifically validated computerized concussion evaluation system. ImPACT provides trained clinicians with neurocognitive assessment tools and services that help in determining safer return to play decisions.
Given the wide variety of symptoms associated with concussions, baseline neuropsychological testing (ImPACT Testing) allows for individualized objective evaluation of the concussed athlete’s post-injury condition and assists in tracking recovery for safe return to play. The program measures multiple aspects of cognitive functioning in athletes, including attention span, working memory, attention time, reaction time, and problem solving.
ImPACT testing helps providers make better return to play decisions, therefore preventing the post concussive syndrome, or second impact syndrome. This occurs in athletes under the age of 23 who sustain a second concussion prior to their initial concussion healing completely.
The ImPACT Test is:
- One important piece of the overall concussion evaluation and management process.
- A sophisticated test of cognitive abilities.
- The most scientifically researched concussion management tool.
- A tool that can help health care professionals track recovery of cognitive processes following concussion.
- A tool to help communicate post-concussion status to athletes, coaches, parents, clinicians.
- A tool that helps health care professionals and educators make decisions about academic needs following concussion.
The ImPACT Test is not:
- A “panacea” or cure-all for concussion, as there is no such thing. As long as contact to the head occurs, concussion will continue to happen.
- A tool to diagnose concussion, which should always be diagnosed by a qualified health care provider.
- A substitute for medical evaluation and treatment.