BMC Concussion Clinic Services
At the BMC Concussion and Evaluation Clinic, located on the 5th floor of the Medical Arts Building adjacent to BMC, patients receive a thorough evaluation and rehabilitation when necessary.
The Evaluation Process
A full history is obtained and a focused physical examination is performed on every new patient. The emphasis in the physical exam is on those neurologic functions commonly affected by a concussion, such as memory, balance, vestibular function (how the brain interprets movement of the body and the head relative to space and the visual surround) and oculomotor function (eye movement and focus).
Patients over the age of 12 years will usually take an ImPACT test (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Test), a computer-based test of visual and verbal memory, processing speed, reaction time, attention, and impulsivity. Many student-athletes take a baseline ImPACT prior to their athletic season so post-injury testing is helpful in identifying the various neuropsychological deficits that might result from a concussion. When administered serially, the ImPACT is a useful tool is determining how a patient is recovering and when they can safely return to physical activity. Dr. Kulberg, the Medical Director of the clinic, is a Credentialed ImPACT Consultant (CIC), who is trained to administer and interpret ImPACT tests.
For families with a pending appointment at the BMC Concussion Clinic, please click here for pre-appoinment instructions.
Rehabilitation
A majority of patients will say they feel better within approximately 2-3 weeks but many of those will have persistent abnormalities when carefully evaluated. Those who continue to experience significant symptoms beyond that point often benefit from rehabilitation, such as vestibular, cognitive, exercise, musculoskeletal, and oculomotor therapies. Therapy is tailored to the individual patient’s need.
The clinic is located within the well-equipped Center for Rehabilitation at Berkshire Medical Center, an arrangement which facilitates close collaboration among all members of the clinic team.
