The assessment of sports-related concussions has evolved considerably. In the past, the focus was on retrospective grading and the length of time to resolution of the injury. Now, licensed health care professionals should base their diagnosis and management decisions on an assessment that incorporates not only the subjective report of the patient but also the results of more objective tests and measures.

Testing is not concussion management, but it is one piece. Successful management and treatment of concussion rely on a thorough clinical assessment, which includes multiple factors. After initial diagnosis, the licensed health care professional can determine whether or not to send the patient on to experts for advanced testing appropriate to the case.