If your child plays junior sport on the Mornington Peninsula, you may have heard coaches or club committees mention “baseline testing” for concussion. It sounds clinical, but the session itself is straightforward, non-invasive, and designed to be a normal part of preparing for a season of sport.
This article walks through what a baseline testing appointment actually involves, from booking through to what happens if a concussion is later suspected, so parents, coaches and young athletes know what to expect before they arrive.
What Is Baseline Testing, In Plain Terms
Baseline testing is a structured assessment completed while an athlete is healthy, well-rested and symptom-free. It records how that individual normally performs across a range of measures, such as memory, concentration, balance and reported symptoms. This personal baseline becomes a reference point. If the same athlete is later assessed after a knock to the head, clinicians can compare the new results against their own baseline rather than relying on generic population averages, which supports a more informed picture of what has changed.
It is important to understand that baseline and post-injury testing are tools that inform clinical decision-making. They do not diagnose a concussion on their own, and they cannot prevent one from happening. A concussion is diagnosed through a broader clinical assessment by a qualified health professional, using testing as one piece of that picture.
Why Local Clubs Are Adopting It
Community sport is a big part of life across the Peninsula, from AFL and netball to football (soccer), basketball and cricket clubs in McCrae, Dromana, Rosebud and Rye. Any contact or collision sport carries some risk of head knocks, and junior athletes in particular are still developing, which is why many clubs and schools are building baseline testing into their pre-season routine. It gives clinicians useful reference information before an injury ever occurs, which can support clearer conversations between families, coaches and health professionals if a head knock does happen during the season.
Before Your Session
Preparing for a baseline test is simple. A few practical points help ensure the results are a genuine reflection of the athlete’s normal baseline:
- Book the session when your child is well, not recovering from illness, poor sleep or a previous injury
- Avoid strenuous exercise immediately beforehand where possible
- Bring any relevant history, such as previous concussions or learning-related conditions, as these can influence results
- Wear comfortable clothing, as some components involve balance and movement tasks
Our osteopaths at The Seaside Osteo are trained through the Complete Concussions (CCMI) framework, which structures the assessment process used during these appointments.
What Happens During the Appointment
A typical baseline concussion testing session at our McCrae clinic takes around 30 to 45 minutes and generally includes several components:
- A conversation about medical history, previous head injuries and any relevant learning or attention conditions
- A symptom checklist, so the clinician has a record of any everyday symptoms unrelated to concussion
- Cognitive tasks assessing memory, concentration and processing speed
- Balance and coordination screening
- Basic vision and reaction-based checks
The environment is calm and unhurried. Young athletes are talked through each task, and there is no pass or fail outcome to worry about, since the aim is simply to capture how that individual normally performs.
How the Results Are Used
Baseline results are stored securely and referred to only if that athlete is later assessed for a suspected head injury. If a knock to the head occurs during a game or training session, a clinician can repeat similar testing and compare it against the individual’s own baseline, alongside a full clinical examination. This comparison supports a more informed and individualised discussion with the athlete’s treating practitioner about recovery and graded return to activity, guided by recognised concussion frameworks such as those used in AFL concussion guidelines and the CCMI approach. It does not replace medical assessment following a suspected concussion, and any athlete showing signs of a head injury should be seen by a health professional regardless of prior baseline results.
Getting Started on the Mornington Peninsula
Whether you are a parent organising testing for one child or a club coordinator arranging sessions for an entire team, our clinic offers concussion testing across the Mornington Peninsula, with appointments available in McCrae for families from Dromana, Rosebud, Rye and surrounding suburbs. Clubs and coaches wanting to understand concussion recognition and management in more depth are also welcome to attend our free concussion workshop, which covers practical signs to watch for on the sideline. Baseline testing sits alongside our broader osteopathy services, supporting a well-rounded approach to musculoskeletal and injury-related care for active families in the area.
Ultimately, baseline testing is one small, proactive step that helps build a clearer picture of each athlete before the season starts, so that if a head knock does occur, decisions about care and return to sport are as informed as possible.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a baseline concussion test take?
Most sessions take around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the athlete’s age and the components included. It is a relaxed, unhurried appointment with no pass or fail result.
What age should a child be for baseline testing?
Baseline testing is commonly done for junior athletes from around primary school age through to adulthood, particularly those involved in contact or collision sports. An osteopath can advise on suitability for younger children.
Does baseline testing prevent concussion?
No. Baseline testing does not prevent a concussion from occurring. It provides a personal reference point that can support a more informed clinical assessment if a head injury is later suspected.
How often should baseline testing be repeated?
Many clubs and clinicians recommend repeating baseline testing periodically, such as at the start of each season, since results can change as children grow and develop. Your clinician can advise on a suitable schedule.
What happens if my child is later suspected of having a concussion?
They should be removed from play immediately and assessed by a qualified health professional. If a baseline test was previously completed, the clinician may use it as one part of a broader clinical assessment to guide recovery and return-to-play decisions.
Concussion testing on the Mornington Peninsula
To learn more or arrange concussion testing, assessment or return-to-play support, visit our concussion testing page or book an appointment online with The Seaside Osteo in McCrae.
This article is general information for Mornington Peninsula families and is not a substitute for individual medical assessment. If you suspect a concussion, seek advice from a qualified health practitioner, and call 000 if there are emergency warning signs.