John Heinz program for concussion management protects student athletes

Fifteen percent of local athletes involved in contact sports sustain a concussion each year, according to one local medical professional. On a national basis, over 7 million cases are recorded annually.

Dr. Michael Raymond, director of clinical neuropsychology at Allied Services John Heinz Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine in Wilkes-Barre Township specializes in concussion management. He holds credentials as an ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) consultant and works with local schools and professional teams such as the Wilkes-Barre/Scmnton Penguins.

Besides the health risks for the athletes, amateur and professional sports teams face significant legal liability if concussion injuries are not properly managed, he says. The challenge in reducing that liability comes from a lack of understanding on the part of coaches, athletes and parents.

Concussion is a common injury, often difficult to diagnose and treat, according to Dr. Raymond. Symptoms include headaches, fatigue, deficits in short-term memory, problem solving and general intellectual functioning, personality change (such as increased irritability, emotionality), dizziness, sleep difficulties and sensitivity to light or noise.