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Comprehensive Sports Concussion Program

A concussion is no mere bump to the head. It is a traumatic injury to the brain. Research suggests that, in addition to causing short-term symptoms, concussion can lead to long-term brain damage and neurologic deficits. Dr. David Franklin provides comprehensive care for both pediatric and adult patients.

We are also eager to work with athletic trainers, coaches, sports clubs and other providers to help them recognize the importance of prompt and expert care for all types of athletes – school, professional and weekend – who are at risk for concussion. Dr. Franklin also works with referring physicians to provide specialized medical treatment, pain management, rehabilitation, neuropsychological testing, counseling and other follow-up care.

To make an appointment, call 877-UCI-DOCS (877-824-3627).

The specialists who work with the UC Irvine Health Sports Concussion Program are experienced in both acute and chronic care of concussion and are uniquely qualified to offer invaluable neuropsychological testing to evaluate the injury's impact on brain function. 

Our services include:

Neuropsychological testing

  • Baseline testing: Performed prior to injury. The computerized instrument provides information in multiple cognitive domains including: attention and concentration, memory retrieval for both visual and verbal information, reaction time, and executive functioning (organization and planning of information).
  • If baseline testing has been performed, the post-concussion results along with other testing information can be compared to the baseline results to evaluate for any change in cognition post-injury.

Initial medical evaluation

  • Diagnosis and treatment of acute brain injury
  • Evaluation of chronic, persistent symptoms
  • Counseling for athletes with a history of concussion who want to continue participating in sports

Follow-up care

  • Monitoring and guiding decisions for the athlete's return to play
  • Monitoring for complete concussion resolution
  • Referrals for patients with concussion complications, including referrals to neuropsychologists, neurologists and neurosurgeons
  • Pain management for headache and other chronic pain symptoms associated with concussion injury
  • Occupational rehabilitation
  • Physical rehabilitation for patients with gait and balance difficulties
  • Neuropsychological counseling

The UC Irvine Health Sports Concussion Program has access to a multidisciplinary team of board-certified physicians, including neurologists, orthopedists, psychiatrists and sports medicine specialists.The team is led by Dr. David Franklin, an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of brain injuries.

This team specializes in the unique treatment needs of children, adolescents and adults with sports-related injuries. We are dedicated to meeting the needs of our patients, their families and caregivers through sensitive and individualized patient care.

Make an Appointment

714-456-7002

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