For young athletes, a concussion is a potentially serious injury in which the brain does not function normally following a blow to the head and can lead to learning problems, behavior problems, and in rare instances, death. The Sports Concussion Program at Texas Children’s Hospital assesses and treats concussions using the latest medical guidelines and treatments, with emphasis on guiding young athletes safely back to sport.
Motion analysis is used in conjunction with traditional concussion assessment protocols for patients who are 13 years of age and older. The technology available at Texas Children’s Motion Analysis and Human Performance Laboratory provides objective information about a patient’s balance and walking patterns, which are often impaired following a concussion. This evaluation is part of a comprehensive concussion management program to guide safe return to play for patients following a concussion.