A simple test that measures reaction time in athletes may help diagnose concussion on the field. Although this test is not meant to replace computerized testing and  medical treatment, delayed reaction time is one indicator of mild brain injury.

Dr. James Eckner and colleagues of the University of Michigan Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in Ann Arbour, tested more than 200 Division 1 male and female athletes during the preseason physicals by measuring how long it took them to catch a weighted cylinder. Anyone who suffered a medically diagnosed concussion during the season took the test 3 days post-concussion.  Eight athletes suffered a concussion during the season and of those, seven had reaction times decreased by 15% from preseason trials.  

A more thorough test is currently used used to diagnose concussion that measures different aspects of cognitive function. Called the ImPACT test (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing), it measures visual memory, reaction time, processing speed and impulse control.  Generally, athletes take this test before the season begins and the results serve as the baseline test. If the player is injured during the season, repeat testing is then done and the two scores are compared.

However not all communities use this testing and there is no testing currently available for on-the-field use. This at least provides a cost-effective way to quickly evaluate a player suspected of head injury. A large scale clinical trial is expected to follow. The results of this small trial will be presented in April at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Neurology this year.

You can check out pictures of this weighted cylinder being tested.