Advanced Techniques & Methods Flashcards

In the context of the NFHS concussion protocol, what distinguishes a 'stepwise return-to-play' approach from simply waiting a set number of days?

Answer: It links progression to symptom resolution and functional performance at each stage

Stepwise return-to-play is symptom-driven, requiring the athlete to be symptom-free at rest and tolerate increasing exertion before advancing each stage.

Which advanced technique is used to objectively measure gaze stability deficits that may persist after a concussion?

Answer: Vestibular/Ocular Motor Screening (VOMS)

The VOMS assesses smooth pursuit, horizontal and vertical saccades, near-point convergence, and vestibulo-ocular reflex, capturing persistent post-concussive oculomotor deficits.

When comparing computerized neurocognitive testing (e.g., ImPACT) to paper-based tests, which is a recognized limitation of computerized platforms in concussion management?

Answer: Practice effects and variable testing environments can affect score reliability

Computerized tests like ImPACT are susceptible to practice effects, motivation variability, and environmental differences that can reduce score reliability without proper baseline controls.

A high school football player is on Step 4 of the return-to-play protocol (non-contact training drills) and reports a mild headache. What is the correct action?

Answer: Return the athlete to Step 3 and reassess when symptom-free

Any re-emergence of concussion symptoms during return-to-play progression requires dropping back to the previous symptom-free step before advancing again.

Near-point convergence (NPC) testing after concussion measures which specific oculomotor function?

Answer: The ability of both eyes to maintain single binocular vision as an object moves toward the nose

NPC assesses convergence insufficiency—a common post-concussion finding—by measuring how close an object can approach before the athlete reports double vision or an eye breaks away.

What is the primary purpose of establishing a pre-season neurocognitive baseline in concussion management programs?

Answer: To provide an individualized comparison standard for post-injury assessments

Pre-season baselines capture the athlete's normal cognitive performance so post-injury scores can be meaningfully compared to their own norm rather than population norms.

Which technique helps differentiate vestibular dysfunction from cervicogenic causes of dizziness following a concussion?

Answer: Head impulse testing and cervical range-of-motion combined assessment

Combining head impulse testing (which stresses the vestibulo-ocular reflex) with cervical spine assessment helps clinicians distinguish inner-ear vestibular deficits from cervical musculoskeletal sources of dizziness.