CFL, NFL partner on in-game concussion testing
Eye-movement exam implemented after head injuries
The NFL and CFL are partnering on concussion testing during Canadian league games and practices this season.
The leagues announced the agreement Thursday.
During CFL training camp and regular-season games that began in June, team medical staffs have been using a remove-from-play sideline concussion screening test based on eye movement. It is being used in addition to the CFL's established sideline concussion examination, and the NFL will contribute funding to help determine whether the tests improve the ability to diagnose concussions.
Called the K-D Test, it's a two-minute exam. An athlete reads single-digit numbers displayed on cards or on a tablet to test eye movement. After suspected head trauma, the athlete is given the test and response time is compared to his pre-season baseline time.
This information, as well as a full medical evaluation, will help diagnose a concussion and subsequently remove a player from play, the leagues said.