CNS Vital Signs: How We Measure Brain Function After Concussion in Kansas City

After a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI), symptoms like brain fog, memory issues, trouble focusing, and slowed reaction times can be frustrating and hard to explain. That’s why objective testing is a critical part of concussion care.

At our Kansas City clinic, we use tools like CNS Vital Signs to help patients across Overland Park, Raytown, Liberty, Lee’s Summit, Shawnee, and North Kansas City understand how their brain is functioning—and how it's improving with treatment.

What Is CNS Vital Signs?

CNS Vital Signs is a computerized neurocognitive testing system that evaluates multiple areas of brain function. It’s used worldwide by healthcare professionals, especially in concussion care, sports medicine, neurology, and functional medicine.

It allows us to:

• Measure cognitive function before and after a concussion

• Identify strengths and weaknesses in different parts of the brain

• Monitor recovery over time

• Provide objective data for return-to-learn, return-to-play, or return-to-work decisions

What Does CNS Vital Signs Test?

The test takes about 30–40 minutes and includes a series of tasks that measure:

• Memory (verbal and visual)

• Executive function (decision-making, reasoning)

• Processing speed

• Reaction time

• Sustained attention

• Cognitive flexibility

• Motor speed

• Psychomotor speed

These domains align with specific regions of the brain, which helps us understand which areas may be affected after a concussion.

Why Is CNS Vital Signs Important After a Concussion?

Brain injuries don’t always show up on MRI or CT scans. That’s where functional testing comes in.

CNS Vital Signs helps us:

• Detect subtle impairments not seen on imaging

• Track recovery even if symptoms have plateaued

• Support decisions about school, sports, work, or driving

• Create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific deficits

Many Kansas City patients tell us it’s a relief to see their brain function on paper—especially when they’ve been told everything is “normal” but they still feel off.

How We Use CNS Vital Signs in Our Kansas City Concussion Program

At our clinic, CNS Vital Signs is often performed:

• At baseline, especially for athletes or high-risk individuals

• Soon after a concussion, to get an objective picture of how the brain is functioning

• Every few weeks during rehab, to track progress and update care plans

• Before clearance, to confirm the brain is ready for full activity

Results are compared to normative data, as well as the patient’s own prior scores when available.

CNS Vital Signs Helps Us Go Beyond Symptoms

It’s common for concussion patients in Blue Springs, Gladstone, Parkville, Belton, and The Plaza to describe symptoms like:

• Trouble with multitasking

• Slower thinking

• Word-finding difficulty

• Short-term memory issues

• Easily overwhelmed by noise or light

• Fatigue after short periods of concentration

CNS Vital Signs gives us a detailed breakdown of which brain systems are underperforming, allowing for more targeted therapy and support.

Is CNS Vital Signs Right for You?

⚠️ Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before undergoing any neurocognitive testing. CNS Vital Signs should be administered and interpreted by professionals trained in concussion management and brain injury recovery.

Kansas City’s Post-Concussion Experts

If you or your child has suffered a concussion, don’t rely on guesswork. Let’s measure what’s happening in your brain, track how it’s changing, and help you recover with clarity and confidence.

Call Dr. Lance Stevenson at 816-226-7476 to schedule your concussion evaluation and CNS Vital Signs testing. We serve patients across the Kansas City metro and surrounding areas with advanced, individualized care.

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