NCAA Medical Monitoring Program
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Acupuncture & Wellness MD
Neurologists & Medical Acupuncturists located in Cornelius, NC
The NCAA Medical Monitoring Program is designed to provide comprehensive neurological assessment and ongoing monitoring for former collegiate athletes. Head injuries and concussions sustained during sports can have long-term impacts on cognitive function, balance, and overall neurological health. At Acupuncture & Wellness MD in Huntersville, North Carolina, Lori Schneider, MD, can help identify, evaluate, and manage these concerns through evidence-based testing and personalized care. Individuals participating in the program often benefit from advanced neurological evaluations and early detection of cognitive changes. If you're a former collegiate athlete, call Acupuncture & Wellness MD or request an appointment online today.
What is the NCAA Medical Monitoring Program?
The NCAA Medical Monitoring Program is a specialized service for former collegiate athletes to assess and track their neurological health over time. Its primary goal is to detect early signs of brain injury or cognitive decline resulting from sports-related head trauma.
The program combines advanced diagnostic testing and neurological evaluations to provide a thorough understanding of your neurological status. Through regular monitoring, healthcare providers, like Dr. Schneider, can identify issues early, develop personalized care plans, and implement strategies to promote long-term brain health and cognitive function.
What type of testing is involved in the NCAA Medical Monitoring Program?
Testing in the NCAA Medical Monitoring Program includes a combination of cognitive assessments, neuroimaging, balance and vestibular evaluations, and other objective measures of neurological function.
Cognitive testing evaluates memory, attention, processing speed, and executive function, while neuroimaging may identify structural changes in the brain. Balance and vestibular assessments help determine the impact of head trauma on coordination and equilibrium.
Additionally, the program may include blood-based biomarkers or other advanced diagnostic tools to detect subtle neurocognitive changes, providing a comprehensive profile of brain health.
Do I need to have been diagnosed with a concussion to participate in the program?
No prior concussion diagnosis is required to participate in the NCAA Medical Monitoring Program. The program is designed not only for athletes who have experienced concussions but also for those who want proactive monitoring of neurological health.
Early detection is critical, as some athletes may have sustained mild head injuries that went unrecognized. Participation allows athletes to establish baseline neurological data, track changes over time, and implement preventive strategies to reduce the risk of long-term complications.
Why is the program important for former athletes?
Former collegiate athletes may experience delayed or subtle effects of past head injuries, including memory difficulties, mood changes, and cognitive decline.
The NCAA Medical Monitoring Program helps identify these issues early, allowing for timely intervention and management. By providing continuous monitoring and integrative care, the program supports long-term brain health and overall quality of life for those who competed at the collegiate level.
To learn more about the NCAA Medical Monitoring Program, call Acupuncture & Wellness MD or request an appointment online today.