NBC26 Special Report-Sports Concussions

CREATED Nov. 8, 2012

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  • The recently passed "Youth Concussion Bill," is one way Wisconsin lawmakers are protecting kids. Video by nbc26.com

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The recently passed "Youth Concussion Bill," is one way Wisconsin lawmakers are protecting kids.  If a student has a suspected concussion on the field the bill requires that player be removed from the game.  There's also a new test on top of that to help keep your kids safe.

This new test is called Baseline testing.  Baseline is a computerized test that measures the athlete's cognitive skills.  If an injury occurs a second test is taken and compared to the first to help doctors tell if concussion symptoms exist.

Reseachers at the "Children's Hospital of Wisconsin" admit Baseline tests are only a piece of the puzzle.  A lot comes down to the trainers and coaches on the frontlines knowing when it's time to pull players from a game, even if the say they feel okay.  

Sitting out a few games might mean a better life on and off the field in the future.  Some schools offer the Baseline test but it's not in all school districts in Wisconsin at this point.