Evaluating dynamic vision testing for concussion management in athletes

Dynamic Vision Testing and Concussion Management

Observational California State University, Northridge · NCT04837066

This study is testing if adding vision checks to concussion management helps student-athletes at California State University, Northridge, see if their vision problems last after a concussion before they go back to playing sports.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment100 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorCalifornia State University, Northridge Academic / other
Locations1 site (Northridge, California)
Trial IDNCT04837066 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of incorporating dynamic vision testing into the concussion management protocol for student-athletes at California State University, Northridge. Participants will undergo dynamic vision assessments, including the Dynamic Visual Acuity (DVA) test and Gaze Stabilization Test (GST), alongside the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS) at three different points: preseason, post-concussion, and upon clearance to return to play. The goal is to determine if vision impairments persist after a concussion and before athletes are cleared to return to their sport.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are California State University, Northridge student-athletes who have sustained a concussion during the 2020-2021 season and can provide consent.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include those with pre-existing vision or balance impairments that exceed normative values.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance concussion management by identifying lingering visual impairments that may affect an athlete's recovery and performance.

How similar studies have performed: While the integration of dynamic vision testing in concussion protocols is relatively novel, similar studies have shown promise in identifying visual deficits post-concussion.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* California State University Northridge athletes
* Participants are able to give consent to participate in the study
* Completion of preseason testing for the 6-condition, BESS, DVA, GST with the research team
* Sustained a concussion as diagnosed by the medical staff during the 2020-2021 season of play.
* Sampling of convenience on a volunteer basis

Exclusion Criteria:

* Athletes with preseason baseline tests on BESS or DVA that are not within the normative value range for an unimpaired individual.
* The initial 6- condition BESS score is \>20 errors
* The subject is unable to attain a minimum of 85 degrees per second of horizontal head rotation when performing the DVA test.

Where this trial is running

Northridge, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Head InjurySport InjuryConcussion, Brain
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.