LAUSR

CONTEXT Baseline testing is a common strategy for concussion assessment and management. Research continues to evaluate novel measures for potential to improve baseline testing methods. OBJECTIVES The primary objective was to (1) determine the feasibility of including physiological, neuromuscular, and mood measures as part of baseline concussion testing protocol, (2) describe typical values in a varsity athlete sample, and (3) estimate the influence of concussion history on these baseline measures. DESIGN Prospective observational study. SETTING Ryerson University Athletic Therapy Clinic. PARTICIPANTS One hundred varsity athletes. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Frequency and domain measures of heart rate variability, blood pressure, grip strength, profile of mood states-short form, and the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool-2. RESULTS Physiological, neuromuscular performance, and mood measures were feasible at baseline. Participants with a history of 2 or more previous concussions displayed significantly higher diastolic blood pressure. Females reported higher total mood disturbance compared with males. CONCLUSIONS Physiological and neuromuscular performance measures are safe and feasible as baseline concussion assessment outcomes. History of concussion may have an influence on diastolic blood pressure.