Abstract
Objective: To document baseline King-Devick (K-D) oculomotor function scores for male and female participants aged between 4 and 20 years old. Methods: Utilising a cross section of schools, rugby clubs and gymnastic clubs, 1936 participants (1300 male, 636 female) completed the spiral-bound K-D test for the identification of disturbed oculomotor function. Results: This study identified that overall, the baseline scores of the K-D test became faster by 1.4 (0.3 to 4.5) s per year, when compared with the previous age group in the same number of reading card groups. When comparing normative values of the original K-D validation study with the same age groups of the current cohort, participants aged 6 to 11 years recorded a faster baseline time (range 3.5 to 8.6 s), while those in the 12 to 14 years. age group recorded slower baseline times (range −3.9 to −7.9 s). Discussion: In general, there were age group differences, but not sex differences, for K-D test times in the current cohort. Analysis of single card times, across all age groups, showed changes likely due to improved reading time. Conclusion: The results support the need for individualised annual pre-injury baseline testing of the K-D test.
Highlights
In recent years, awareness of concussion has grown [1] with increasing attention being paid to professional and elite sport, where athletes are closely monitored and medical support teams are well established
There were no differences between the sexes for any other age groups
The K-D oculomotor function test can assist in the rapid identification of concussion
Summary
Awareness of concussion has grown [1] with increasing attention being paid to professional and elite sport, where athletes are closely monitored and medical support teams are well established. Given the health risks associated with concussion [2], challenges arise for the clinicians, coaches, and parents who are responsible for those playing amateur and junior-level sport. This is magnified by the ambiguity in the presentation and pathophysiology of concussion in an immature brain when compared to a mature brain [3]. Available resources can vary in terms of the medical provision, associated costs, and time availability for the testing and assessment of anyone with a concussion. The step in the identification and assessment of concussion is to provide coaches, parents, and clinicians, with available tools to identify concussion whilst assisting in the guidance of recovery from the effects of a concussion and enabling a return to participation in the athletes’ chosen activities
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