With winter here, a lot of us are gearing up for skiing, snowboarding, and other cold-weather sports. But while these activities are a great way to stay active and have fun, they also carry a higher risk of injury, particularly concussions.
Whether you're an experienced snowboarder, a weekend skier, or training in a contact sport like ice hockey or rugby, understanding the role of baseline concussion testing can help you stay safe and recover smarter if something goes wrong.
What Is a Concussion?
Many people associate concussions with professional sports, where athletes frequently collide, such as in rugby, AFL, or football. However, concussions can also occur in high-velocity sports like snowboarding, skiing, cycling, or even car racing. These injuries can have long-term effects, and it's important to understand the risks involved in any sport where impacts are common.
A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury. It usually happens after a hit to the head or a sudden jolt, like falling hard on the snow or colliding with another player. It doesn't always knock you out, and symptoms might not show up straight away, but it still means the brain has been shaken in a way that affects how it works.
Some common symptoms include:
Headache or pressure in the head
Ringing in the ears
Nausea or feeling unsettled in the stomach
Vomiting or throwing up
Fatigue or feeling unusually drowsy
Blurry vision or difficulty focusing on objects
Confusion or feeling "foggy" and unable to concentrate
Memory loss or amnesia, especially surrounding the event that caused the injury
Dizziness or the sensation of “seeing stars”
Temporary loss of consciousness, though it doesn’t always happen
Slurred speech or difficulty speaking clearly
Delayed response to questions or inability to answer quickly
Dazed or vacant appearance, appearing out of sorts
Forgetfulness, such as asking the same question repeatedly
It’s worth noting that concussions can vary a lot from person to person, and some symptoms can be pretty subtle, especially in colder conditions when you're already feeling tired or sore.
What Is Baseline Concussion Testing?
Baseline testing is something you do before there’s ever an injury. It measures how your brain works when it’s healthy, testing things like:
Memory
Balance
Coordination
Reaction time
Having a baseline reading provides physiotherapists and healthcare professionals with a clear reference point to assess any changes in your brain function if you sustain a concussion. By comparing post-injury test results to your baseline, they can make more accurate decisions about the severity of the concussion and guide your recovery.
Injuries happen, even when we’re careful. But when it comes to the brain, early identification and proper recovery are key. Baseline testing isn’t complicated, and it doesn’t take long. Think of it as another piece of protective gear: you hope you won’t need it, but it makes a big difference if you do.
If you'd like to learn more about our concussion services here or speak with one of our physiotherapists
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