What is Cognition ?

That is a good question.  When someone has cognitive "problems" it simply means that his thinking skill is altered.  Although this can be misleading. Cognition refers to the sum total of all thinking, planning, and problem solving. Traumatic brain injury has the potential to alter cognitive skills such that these "automatic" processes no longer work as efficiently as they once did.  Deficits in cognition impact school and work functioning and are often unrecognized by the patient.  Brain injuries alter the normal trajectory of all students.

What is Computerized Testing ?

Computerized assessment allows athletes to participate in highly reliable cognitive function testing that measures subtle differences in memory, reaction time, processing speed and more.  In doing so clinicians are able to measure changes in neurocognition that may be attributed to the effects of trauma to the brain. 

Until now athletes underwent extensive neuroimaging studies that were of little value in identifying the impact of concussive injuries.  Physicians utilized educated guesses to determine when a player could return to competition.  Dr. Sefton is a Certified ImPACT Consultant who has used the computerized ImPACT program for 5 years.  The Concussion Assessment and Management Program works with youth football organizations, private schools, colleges, and professional teams to help manage concussion and return-to-play protocols.   When indicated complete neuropsychological assessment is available with Dr. Mindy Sefton through the Whittier Rehabilitation Hospital Outpatient Service at 508-871-7777.

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