Concussion Testing
Beginning Fall 2023, WHS Athletics started using a new concussion management software called “SWAY”. This replaced our use of the “ImPACT” program, which we have utilized in the past.
Sway combines objective balance measures using accelerometers and sensors that are already built into your mobile device as well as cognitive measure to support healthcare professionals in performing accurate and informed evaluations using one’s own mobile device. Sway is a free app available on both the Apple iOS and Android operating systems.
This tool will be utilized during the return to play process.
Baseline Testing
All student-athletes will be required to complete the baseline measurement their Freshman and Junior years, including any transfer students that are new to the school or WHS athletics. Group baseline testing will be conducted with each team at the beginning of the season, in-person at the school. You will not need to take a baseline test at home as you have in the past.
Baseline testing will utilize each individual’s personal mobile device. The mobile device must be able to download the Sway App. It is helpful to download the Sway App prior to coming for a baseline session. If you do not own a smart mobile device or cannot download the Sway App, we will provide a means of baseline testing for you.
For more information regarding the Sway software, please visit https://swaymedical.com.
Concussion Protocol
A sport-related concussion is defined as a traumatic brain injury caused by a direct blow to the head, face, neck, or elsewhere on the body resulting in an impulsive force being transmitted to the brain that occurs in sports or exercise-related activities. Concussions result in a range of clinical symptoms that may or may not include physical signs, behavioral changes, cognitive impairment, sleep disturbances, and loss of consciousness. Concussion signs, symptoms, and behaviors can develop and evolve over time so it is important to continually re-evaluate an athlete with a suspected concussion to ensure their mental status and level of consciousness is not deteriorating.
There is no such thing as a minor brain injury. Any suspected concussion should be taken seriously. Getting your “bell rung” is not a normal part of sports.
In the event that an athlete is believed to have sustained a concussion, the athlete will be immediately removed from participation for the remainder of the day. The athletic trainer will complete a comprehensive evaluation and neurological examination using both Sway Medical and the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT6). The parent/guardian will be notified and the athlete will be sent home with the WHS Concussion Clearance Packet. Athletes will be instructed to visit a physician as soon as possible, and report to the athletic trainer on a daily basis to complete the post-concussion symptoms inventory.
The school nurses will be notified of all potential and diagnosed concussions and follow up with the student-athlete and/or parent/guardian. They will communicate any academic accommodations with necessary school personnel and will assist the student-athlete during the school day.
At this time, the athlete will not be allowed to participate in practices, competitions, weightlifting, or other physical activity until cleared by a licensed healthcare provider.
Return to Play Progression
An athlete that has been removed from play may not return to play until the athlete is evaluated by a licensed healthcare provider trained in education and management of concussions.
The best available evidence shows that strict rest is not beneficial. Athletes should continue to engage in activities of daily living immediately following injury, even during the initial period of 24-48 hours of relative rest. The Return to Play (RTP) protocol must be monitored by the athletic trainer or another healthcare provider. Athletes may begin step 1 within 24 hours of injury. Athletes must be completely symptom-free and cleared by a healthcare provider before beginning step 4. The RTP protocol is as follows:
Step 1: Symptom-Limited Activity. Daily activities that do not exacerbate symptoms (i.e. walking).
Step 2: Aerobic Exercise. Stationary cycling or walking at a slow to medium pace. May start light resistance training.
Step 3: Individual Sport-Specific Exercise. Sport-specific training away from the team environment (running, change of direction, and/or individual training drills).
Step 4: Non-Contact Training Drills. Exercise to high intensity including more challenging training drills in team environment.
Step 5: Full Contact Practice. Participate in normal training activities.
Step 6: Return to Sport. Normal Game Play.
There should be a minimum of 24 hours between each step. If any symptoms increase more than briefly or mildly, the athlete will stop and try that step again again after 24 hours. A sport-specific program is followed whenever possible.
According to NH Senate Bill 402, permission of a parent/guardian is required for an athlete to return to participation in sports following a concussion.