Introduction To The LA Junior Kings Concussion Management Program
Welcome to our new concussion management program. My name is Dr. David Lechuga. I am a clinical/sports neuropsychologist. I work with amateur and professional athletes that are at risk of sustaining concussions. I am the consulting sports neuropsychologist to the LA Galaxy, the LA Football Club, and your LA Kings.
This year we are initiating an aspect to concussion management that is common in most CIF, collegiate, and professional sports. Pre-season cognitive testing, via a program like ImPACT allows me to know an athlete’s pre-concussion cognitive status. Once that athlete has made the majority of his/her recovery from a concussion, then I can have the athlete re-take a different version of ImPACT. That allows for a comparison between the pre-concussion scores and the post-concussion scores. If the scores are equivalent, then the athlete is considered to be at their pre-concussion level or baseline. At that point, I contact the physician overseeing the athlete’s recovery, and inform that professional of this finding. Usually, the physician then gives the okay for the athlete to return to practice and play. If an athlete is not at their pre-concussion baseline, then they are not cleared to return to practice and play. Often the athlete requires more time to recover from their concussion.
Clinical research informs us that most concussed athletes recover from their concussions within a relatively short period of time Prolonged absences from school are not recommended during the recovery. Instead, a gradual return and the use of modifications or accommodations are recommended, until the athlete/student can tolerate a full school day. There are instances when the recovery from a concussion is more prolonged. Again, this is when the involvement of an athlete’s physician will be essential. I can also consult with this professional, and the athlete as well as their family, to ensure that the most helpful recovery process is in place.
Helpful Resources:
https://www.aan.com/concussion
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWik2cjePh4
https://www.cdc.gov/headsup/youthsports/index.html
ImPACT Baseline Testing Guidelines
Pre-testing:
- Use a computer, iPad, or notebook device in a quiet, distraction-free environment.
- Please make sure you are using the most updated version of your browser.
- Turn off an ad blocker for the duration of the test.
- Your browser must accept cookies.
- JavaScript must be enabled in your browser.
- Close all other programs before starting ImPACT.
- You will need a broadband connection that doesn’t have time restrictions.
- Ideally, you should use an external mouse.
- Your screen must be 12 inches or larger.
Completing the Baseline ImPACT test:
- An email will be sent to you with all instructions. Please follow these instructions carefully.
- A parent/adult should assist the athlete initiate the testing process.
- Once initiated, the athlete should complete the test on their own.
Any glitches?
Contact Dr. David Lechuga.