In recent years, concussion has been tied to physical and emotional problems among high-profile pro athletes. Awareness of the long-term dangers of concussion has spread to amateur and school sports coaches, trainers, physicians and athletes.

Southcoast Health has been able to assist through its Concussion Management Program. Schools can arrange for athletes to get baseline physical and neurological evaluations at Southcoast. In the event of a suspected concussion, ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) diagnostic tests can be compared to the baseline results to determine if it’s safe to return to play.

The Concussion Management Program also offers a concussion education session for parents and athletes to understand more about this important issue.

To learn more, visit Southcoast’s Concussion Management Program. For more information on ImPACT testing and concussion education sessions, contact Kathy Thornton, MS, LAT, CSCS, Team Leader, Injury Prevention, at thorntonk@southcoast.org or 508-973-9110, ext. 49116.

Health+ Fall 2016