Center Foundation Offers Concussion Baseline Testing Saturday

The Center Foundation

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BEND, OR -- It's estimated that 15 to 20 percent of high school athletes receive a concussion in any given year. If an athlete returns to play too soon, a second impact could have life changing consequences.

That's why The Center Foundation tests students each year of how a child's healthy brain is functioning.

"It's a computerized assessment, it's actually kind of fun," said Carol Stiles, Executive Director of The Center Foundation.

ImPACT Baseline testing for children ages 11-18 is a 'snapshot' of how a child's healthy brain is functioning and will be stored for later use in the event that child receives a concussion.

"We are able to post concussion test the kids, and compare the post concussion test to the baseline, and therebye have very good data to recommend to coaches, parents, physicians when it is safe for that child to return to the field of play," she said.

Post concussion tests and assessment are conducted by a specially trained neuropsychologist and handled through parent or guardian self-pay or insurance.

"If that young brain is not given adequate time to heal from the concussion, and the kid goes back and plays again, then they're at risk at suffering the second impact concussion syndrome, which can really be devastating," Stiles said.

ImPACT Concussion Baseline testing for children ages 11-18 years who have not already been baselined through their schools, on Saturday, March 13th at 10:00 a.m. at Summit High School Library. The cost is $10. Pre-register by call Carol Stiles at the Center Foundation. 541.322-2399 or email cstiles@centerfoundation.org.

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