Know your baseline before the season starts

Concussion Baseline Testing

At a GLance

Baseline Testing Snapshot

Baseline concussion testing measures an athlete’s normal brain function before a season begins. If a concussion occurs, doctors can compare post-injury results to the athlete’s baseline to help guide safer recovery and return-to-play decisions.

Baseline testing is widely used in youth and competitive sports and can be an important step in protecting long-term brain health.

What Is Concussion Baseline Testing?

Concussion baseline testing measures several aspects of brain function while an athlete is healthy and uninjured.

These tests may assess:

The results create a personal benchmark for each athlete. If a concussion occurs during the season, healthcare providers can compare post-injury results to the baseline to better understand how the brain is recovering.

Without baseline testing, clinicians must rely only on general averages rather than the athlete’s normal performance.

Get a clear picture

Why Baseline Testing Matters

Concussions affect everyone differently. Two athletes with similar injuries may recover at very different rates.

Baseline testing helps:

For many sports organizations, baseline testing has become a standard part of concussion safety protocols.

Who Should Consider Baseline Testing?

Baseline testing is recommended for athletes involved in sports where head impacts or collisions may occur.

This includes sports such as:

Lacrosse

Hockey

Football

Soccer

Basketball

Rugby

Baseball

It can be particularly helpful for:

Parents often choose baseline testing to ensure there is clear information available if an injury occurs during the season.

From assessment to return-to-play

Concussion Assessment and Management

In addition to baseline testing, Dr. Mark has extensive experience in concussion assessment and recovery management.

Concussion symptoms can include:

Proper management is important because returning to activity too quickly can increase the risk of prolonged symptoms or further injury.

Dr. Mark uses evidence-based concussion management strategies to help guide safe recovery and return-to-play decisions.

Sports-focussed care and expertise

Experience Working With Athletes

Dr. Mark Malowney has worked with athletes of all ages and has extensive experience supporting the local sports community.

His background in sports injury care and concussion management allows him to provide athletes and families with clear guidance and individualized care throughout the recovery process.

Book a Baseline Concussion Test

If you are interested in baseline concussion testing for yourself, your child, or a sports team, please contact us for availability.

Appointments may be scheduled individually or for small groups depending on availability.

Baseline Concussion Testing Answered

Frequently Asked Questions

When should baseline testing be done?

Baseline testing should be completed before the sports season begins, while the athlete is healthy and symptom-free.

How long does baseline testing take?

Most baseline testing sessions take approximately 20–30 minutes per athlete, depending on the testing protocol used.

How often should baseline testing be updated?

Many organizations recommend repeating baseline testing every 1–2 years, especially for youth athletes whose brains are still developing.

What happens if an athlete gets a concussion?

If a concussion occurs, follow-up testing may be used alongside clinical evaluation to help determine when it is safe for the athlete to return to school, sport, and physical activity.