Orthopedics Plus

Can I play today or not?

Tracy McCormick | August 24th, 2010

That’s usually the number one question a young athlete asks after being brought to our Sports Concussion Clinic. And while that may be the most important thing on their mind, we’re contemplating a few other things. Like how exactly did this injury happen, what is the patient’s concussion history and what’s the plan for them to return to their activity safely?

It starts with Immediate Post-concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing – more commonly known as the ImPACT test. This is a screening tool that measures all aspects of a concussion. Once the test is completed a licensed athletic trainer and a sports medicine physician review the results. The physician then takes the test results to the athlete and their family. Questions are answered, recommendations are given and, if necessary, appropriate physical and academic modifications are advised. This important information is also handed to the patient in printed form prior to them leaving our facility.

The fact we utilize licensed athletic trainers and fellowship trained sports medicine physicians together to treat concussion is unique and allows us to provide the best care possible. Our sports medicine physicians have all completed additional training in the management of sports-related injuries, as well as concussion management using ImPACT.  Licensed athletic trainers, by the nature of their job, deal with concussion on a regular basis and are well trained in how to manage the injury acutely. Here, both professionals work together to return the athlete to their sport in the safest manner.

We’re aware, however, that sometimes the athlete just wants to know when they can return to practice or a scheduled game. That’s why our Sports Concussion Clinic is open Monday through Friday from 12 to 2 p.m. Those hours allow us enough time to evaluate the patient and give them the thumbs up, or down, regarding that all-important afternoon practice. We get it – they just want to play.

*Tracy McCormick

Licensed Athletic Trainer

Program Coordinator

*Tracy, along with ThedaCare Orthopedics Plus Dr. Mark Hallett, developed the Wisconsin Sports Concussion Collaborative and have assisted in setting up concussion clinics in hospitals statewide. For more information visit www.WIsportsconcussion.org.

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