Genesis Concussion Management

Dinged, bell rung, knocked out.

Whatever the dismissive slang term might be, the fact is that concussions are brain injuries and the impact of brain injuries can be long-term and debilitating.

"One of the hottest topics in sports is the increasing incidence of concussions and the impact repeated concussions can have,'' said Connie Tauke, PT, Rehabilitation Services Manager of Genesis, Illini Campus.  "We have experienced the need in the region for a program like this and are pleased to get this project off the ground.''

Genesis Concussion Management is scheduled to open in June at Genesis Medical Center, Davenport and at Genesis Medical Center, Illini Campus in Silvis.

Prior to their season, athletes will be able to get a comprehensive, objective screening of balance function and neurocognitive screening to establish baseline functioning. Genesis will be using balance technology that is endorsed by the NCAA and used by many professional athletic teams. If the athlete sustains a concussion, the clinic will again screen the athlete and a comparative assessment will be possible using the baseline results.

A recovery program may be prescribed and additional treatment may be recommended before the athlete is able to return to competition.

"One of the primary goals of the Genesis program will be to raise awareness about the seriousness of sports-related concussions and the long-term impact they can have,'' Tauke added. 

It is estimated that emergency departments of hospitals in the U.S. treat 135,000 patients with sports and recreation-related traumatic brain injuries, including concussions each year.