Abstract:
The invention relates to a system and method for monitoring a physiological parameter of a player(s) from a larger group of players engaged in a contact sport. The system includes a helmet having a protective outer shell and an internal padding assembly, a portable signaling device, and a reporting unit positioned within the helmet. The reporting unit includes a sensor, a wireless transmitter and a control unit. The reporting unit has a flexible configuration to enable removable positioning within the helmet&#39;s internal padding assembly while maintaining overall comfort and fit of the helmet. The method involves monitoring impacts sustained by the specific player; computing impact results and comparing-impact results to at least one impact-related threshold; defining an alert event when an impact result surpasses a predetermined threshold value; sending an alert from the reporting unit to the signaling device; and providing an impact assessment protocol on the signaling device.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/328,445, filed Jan. 9, 2006, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/642,240, filed Jan. 7, 2005, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/609,555, filed Sep. 13, 2004, and is a continuation-in-part (CIP) application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/225,880, filed Sep. 13, 2005, which is a continuation-in-part (CIP) application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/997,832, filed Nov. 24, 2004, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/974,566, filed Oct. 10, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,826,509, which claims the benefit of Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/239,379, filed Oct. 11, 2000, all of which are incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof. 
     
    
     FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
       [0002]    A portion of the invention described herein was made in the course of work under grant number 1R43HD4074301 from the National Institute of Health. The U.S. Government may retain certain rights in this invention 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0003]    The invention relates to a system for monitoring physiological parameters of players engaged in a sports activity. The invention further relates to a method for evaluating and treating players when the parameter exceeds a predetermined level. The system measures, calculates and records the parameters and then alerts trained personnel to apply the method to evaluate and treat players. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    There is a concern in various contact sports, such as football and hockey, of brain injury due to impact to the head. During such physical activity, the head or other body part of the individual is often subjected to direct contact to the head which results in impact to the skull and brain of the individual as well as movement of the head or body part itself. 
         [0005]    Much remains unknown about the response of the brain to head accelerations in the linear and rotational directions and even less about the correspondence between specific impact forces and injury, particularly with respect to injuries caused by repeated exposure to impact forces of a lower level than those that result in a catastrophic injury or fatality. Almost all of what is known is derived from animal studies, studies of cadavers under specific directional and predictable forces (i.e. a head-on collision test), from crash dummies, from human volunteers in well-defined but limited impact exposures or from other simplistic mechanical models. The conventional application of known forces and/or measurement of forces applied to animals, cadavers, crash dummies, and human volunteers limit our knowledge of a relationship between forces applied to a living human head and resultant severe and catastrophic brain injury. These prior studies have limited value as they typically relate to research in the automobile safety area. 
         [0006]    The concern for sports-related injuries, particularly to the head, is higher than ever. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that the incidence of sports-related mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) approaches 300,000 annually in the United States. Approximately ⅓ of these injuries occur in football. MTBI is a major source of lost player time. Head injuries accounted for 13.3% of all football injuries to boys and 4.4% of all soccer injuries to both boys and girls in a large study of high school sports injuries. Approximately 62,800 MTBI cases occur annually among high school varsity athletes, with football accounting for about 63% of cases. Concussions in hockey affect 10% of the athletes and make up 12%-14% of all injuries. 
         [0007]    For example, a typical range of 4-6 concussions per year in a football team of 90 players (7%), and  6  per year from a hockey team with 28 players (21%) is not uncommon. In rugby, concussion can affect as many as 40% of players on a team each year. Concussions, particularly when repeated multiple times, significantly threaten the long-term health of the athlete. The health care costs associated with MTBI in sports are estimated to be in the hundreds of millions annually. The National Center for Injury Prevention and Control considers sports-related traumatic brain injury (mild and severe) an important public health problem because of the high incidence of these injuries, the relative youth of those being injured with possible long term disability, and the danger of cumulative effects from repeat incidences. 
         [0008]    Athletes who suffer head impacts during a practice or game situation often find it difficult to assess the severity of the blow. Physicians, trainers, and coaches utilize standard neurological examinations and cognitive questioning to determine the relative severity of the impact and its effect on the athlete. Return to play decisions can be strongly influenced by parents and coaches who want a star player back on the field. Subsequent impacts following an initial concussion (MTBI) may be 4-6 times more likely to result in a second, often more severe, brain injury. Significant advances in the diagnosis, categorization, and post-injury management of concussions have led to the development of the Standardized Assessment of Concussion (SAC), which includes guidelines for on-field assessment and return to sport criteria. Yet there are no objective biomechanical measures directly related to the impact used for diagnostic purposes. Critical clinical decisions are often made on the field immediately following the impact event, including whether an athlete can continue playing. Data from the actual event would provide additional objective data to augment psychometric measures currently used by the on-site medical practitioner. 
         [0009]    Brain injury following impact occurs at the tissue and cellular level, and is both complex and not fully understood. Increased brain tissue strain, pressure waves, and pressure gradients within the skull have been linked with specific brain injury mechanisms. Linear and rotational head acceleration are input conditions during an impact. Both direct and inertial (i.e. whiplash) loading of the head result in linear and rotational head acceleration. Head acceleration induces strain patterns in brain tissue, which may cause injury. There is significant controversy regarding what biomechanical information is required to predict the likelihood and severity of MTBI. Direct measurement of brain dynamics during impact is extremely difficult in humans. 
         [0010]    Head acceleration, on the other hand, can be more readily measured; its relationship to severe brain injury has been postulated and tested for more than 50 years. Both linear and rotational acceleration of the head play an important role in producing diffuse injuries to the brain. The relative contributions of these accelerations to specific injury mechanisms have not been conclusively established. The numerous mechanisms theorized to result in brain injury have been evaluated in cadaveric and animal models, surrogate models, and computer models. Prospective clinical studies combining head impact biomechanics and clinical outcomes have been strongly urged. Validation of the various hypotheses and models linking tissue and cellular level parameters with MTBI in sports requires field data that directly correlates specific kinematic inputs with post-impact trauma in humans. 
         [0011]    In the prior art, conventional devices have employed testing approaches which do not relate to devices which can be worn by living human beings, such as the use of dummies. When studying impact with dummies, they are typically secured to sleds with a known acceleration and impact velocity. The dummy head then impacts with a target, and the accelerations experienced by the head are recorded. Impact studies using cadavers are performed for determining the impact forces and pressures which cause skull fractures and catastrophic brain injury. 
         [0012]    There is a critical lack of information about what motions and impact forces lead to MTBI in sports. Previous research on football helmet impacts in actual game situations yielded helmet impact magnitudes as high as 530 g&#39;s for a duration of 60 msec and &gt;1000 g&#39;s for unknown durations with no known MTBI. Accelerometers were held firmly to the head via the suspension mechanism in the helmet and with Velcro straps. A recent study found maximum helmet accelerations of 120 g&#39;s and 150 g&#39;s in a football player and hockey player, respectively. The disparity in maximum values among these limited data sets demonstrates the need for additional large-scale data collection. 
         [0013]    Most prior art attempts relate to testing in a lab environment. However, the playing field is a more appropriate testing environment for accumulating data regarding impact to the head. A limitation of the prior art involves practical application and widespread use of measurement technologies that are size and cost effective for individuals and teams. Therefore, there would be significant advantage to outfitting an entire playing team with a recording system for monitoring impact activities. This would assist in accumulating data of all impacts to the head, independent of severity level, to study the overall profile of head impacts for a given sport. Also, full-time head acceleration monitoring would also be of great assistance in understanding a particular impact or sequence of impacts to a player&#39;s head over time that may have caused an injury and to better treat that injury medically. 
         [0014]    Conventional devices do not include a system which immediately measures, calculates and records the magnitude and direction of an impact to the player&#39;s body part. In addition, conventional devices do not provide a method or protocol for qualified sideline personnel to evaluate and treat a player who sustains an impact to the body part. Further, no conventional devices are integrated such that a system prompts the method for evaluating and treating a player who sustains such an impact. Conventional devices also lack a wireless device that can be utilized on an interactive basis to evaluate and treat a player who sustains such an impact. 
         [0015]    The present invention is provided to solve the problems discussed above and other problems, and to provide advantages and aspects not provided by prior systems of this type. A full discussion of the features and advantages of the present invention is deferred to the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0016]    The present invention provides a system for monitoring physiological parameters of players engaged in a sports activity. The invention further relates to a method for evaluating and treating players when the parameter exceeds a predetermined level. The system measures, calculates and records the parameters, and then alerts trained personnel to apply the method to evaluate and treat players. The system and method are especially well suited for helmeted team sports where players are susceptible to head impacts and injuries; for example, football, hockey, and lacrosse. 
         [0017]    According to one aspect of the invention, the system includes multiple reporting units, a controller unit, a signaling device, a database, and software that enables the various components of the system to communicate and interact. The reporting unit is configured for use with a variety of protective gear, such as a helmet, head band, leg guard, or shoulder pad. Because most teams include numerous players, in some cases exceeding one hundred players, each player has a recording unit that communicates with the controller. Therefore, the recording units continuously and collectively measure and transmit physiological data to the controller for monitoring of the players. While a significant portion of the parameter measurement and monitoring occurs during the course of play, the system continues to measure relevant physiological parameters, such as the players&#39; body temperature, when players are at a reduced activity level on the sideline. The system may be configured without the controller, whereby the reporting units interact and communicate directly with the signaling device. 
         [0018]    According to another aspect of the invention, the system is integrated with a method for evaluating and treating a player. The method includes a number of steps to be performed by qualified sideline personnel, such as trainers, coaches, and/or medical staff, which typically are on or near the sidelines of a sporting event or practice. The method utilizes a software package or interactive wizards that are loaded onto the signaling device, such as a personal digital assistant (PDA). When a physiological parameter exceeds a predetermined limit resulting in an alert event, the controller sends a signal to the signaling device providing relevant information about the alert event. For each alert event, the signaling device displays the affected player&#39;s number and medical history, the time of the event, and the physiological parameter to be evaluated. The interactive wizards provide testing baselines and an interactive protocol for guiding sideline personnel through appropriate examination procedures. The signaling device records the results and transmits the results to the controller and/or the database for use in further evaluation and treatment of the player. Therefore, whenever an alert event occurs and a potentially injured player is brought to the sideline for evaluation, the signaling device displays the individual&#39;s medical and injury history, the results of previous evaluations and other pertinent medical data. Then, the signaling device, through the interactive wizards, prompts the sideline personnel to conduct the appropriate sideline examination, records the responses, compares the results to established baselines, and may prompt further testing. The sideline personnel, which may include certified trainers and/or medical staff, such as physicians, utilize the stored results to evaluate the severity of the player&#39;s condition and to make a return to play (RTP) decision or a no return to play decision for the player. 
         [0019]    Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following specification taken in conjunction with the following drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0020]    To understand the present invention, it will now be described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying exhibits in which: 
           [0021]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a system and method of the present invention; 
           [0022]      FIG. 2  is a schematic of the system of the invention; 
           [0023]      FIG. 3  is a schematic of a reporting unit of the system of the invention; 
           [0024]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the reporting unit of the system installed in a helmet; 
           [0025]      FIG. 5  is a flowchart of the system and method, showing three grades of concussions to be monitored and treated; 
           [0026]      FIG. 6A  is a flowchart of the method, showing a first portion of the evaluation and treatment sequence for a mild grade concussion; 
           [0027]      FIG. 6B  is a flowchart of the method, showing a second portion of the evaluation and treatment sequence for a mild grade concussion; 
           [0028]      FIG. 7  is a flowchart of the method, showing the evaluation and treatment sequence for a moderate grade concussion; 
           [0029]      FIG. 8  is a flowchart of the method, showing the evaluation and treatment sequence for a severe grade concussion; 
           [0030]      FIG. 9  is a flowchart of the method, showing the evaluation and treatment sequence for off-field evaluation and a mild grade concussion; and, 
           [0031]      FIG. 10  is a flowchart of the method, showing the evaluation and treatment sequence for a return to play (RTP) decision where the player has sustained his first mild or moderate concussion of the season. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0032]    While this invention is susceptible of embodiments in many different forms, there are shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail preferred embodiments of the invention with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to the embodiments illustrated. 
         [0033]      FIGS. 1-10  depict a multi-component system  10  for actively monitoring physiological parameters of numerous players engaged in a sporting activity, wherein the system  10  interacts with the method for evaluating and treating players based upon the results of the monitored parameter. In one embodiment, the players&#39; parameter data is transmitted, via a wired or wireless connection, to a controller for calculation and then to a signaling device for use by trained personnel to employ the method for player evaluation and treatment. The system  10  may be configured to measure and calculate the acceleration of a body part (e.g., the head) of players while engaged in physical activity, such as during play of a contact sport. In another embodiment, the system  10  is designed to measure and calculate each player&#39;s body temperature during play. In yet another embodiment, the system  10  is designed to measure and calculate both the acceleration of each player&#39;s body part and the player&#39;s temperature during play. When a calculated parameter result approaches or exceeds a predetermined level, the qualified sideline personnel utilize the method of the present invention to evaluate and treat the player(s) in question. Since most contact sports involve multi-player teams, the system  10  simultaneously measures, records and transmits the data on the physiological parameters for all players on the team throughout the course of play, including a game or practice. The system  10  is especially well suited for helmeted team sports where players are susceptible to head impacts and injuries; for example, football, hockey, and lacrosse. The system  10  could also be employed in sports where helmets are not traditionally worn; for example, rugby or soccer. 
         [0034]    The system  10  is generally comprised of multiple reporting units  20 , a controller unit  40 , a signaling device  60 , a database  80 , and software  90  that enables the various components of the system  10  to communicate and interact. While the system  10  is described below in the context of a helmeted team sport, the system  10  can be utilized in connection with other sporting activities that do not require a helmet, such as soccer or rugby. Consequently, the system  10  can be configured for use with other protective gear, such as a head band, leg guard, or shoulder pad. Because a football team includes numerous players, in some cases exceeding one hundred players, each player has a recording unit  20  that communicates with the controller  40 . Therefore, the recording units  20  continuously and collectively measure and transmit physiological data to the controller for monitoring of the players. While a significant portion of the parameter measurement and monitoring occurs during the course of play, the system  10  continues to measure relevant physiological parameters, such as the players&#39; body temperature, when players are at a reduced activity level on the sideline. 
         [0035]    The reporting unit  20  automatically and continuously measures and records the player&#39;s physiological parameters and transmits data regarding the parameter to the controller  40 . When the system  10  is configured for use with a football team, the wearable reporting unit  20  is adapted for use either within each player&#39;s helmet or protective gear, such as shoulder pads. Referring to  FIGS. 1-4  and as explained in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/225,880 which is incorporated herein by reference, the reporting unit  20  includes a sensor assembly defined by a plurality of sensors  22  that measures the player&#39;s physiological parameter and a control unit  24 , wherein the sensors  22  are operably connected to the control unit  24 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , a wire lead  26  electrically connects each sensor  22  with the control unit  24 . The control unit  24  can include a signal conditioner  24   a , a filter  24   b , a microcontroller  24   c  (or microprocessor), a telemetry element  24   d , an encoder  24   e , and a power source  24   f . While the encoder  24   e  is shown as separate from the telemetry element  24   d , the encoder  24   e  can be integrated within the telemetry element  24   d . The sensors  22  are calibrated to measure the player&#39;s physiological condition or parameter and then generate input data regarding each parameter. The control unit  24  processes the input data, including filtering and conditioning as necessary, and then converts the data to signals. Next, the encoder  24   e  of the control unit  24  encodes the signals with a unique identifier, and the telemetry element  24   d  wirelessly transmits (as represented by the lightning bolts in  FIG. 1 ) the encoded signals to the remote controller  40  which recognizes the encoded signals for further processing and calculation. The telemetry element  24   d  can be a transceiver, or a separate receiver and transmitter. The power source  24   f  can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. In another embodiment of the system  10 , the parameter data transmitted from the reporters  20  to the controller  40  can be encrypted to increase the security of the underlying data. In this configuration, the system  10  can include a cipher for performing encryption and decryption, and a key to parameterize the cipher. The reporting unit  20  can transmit parameter data during the course of play or between plays via a wireless transmitter to the controller  40 . Alternatively, the reporting unit  20  transmits parameter data during prolonged stoppages of play, such as intermission or half-time, or after the completion of play or the game via a wired connection to the controller  40 . In the wired configuration, the reporting unit  20  transfers parameter data with a wired protocol, such as I2C, SPI, USB, RS 232 or others. Due to the wired connection between the reporting unit  20  and the controller  40 , the reporting unit  20  need not include the telemetry element  24   d  and/or the encoder  24   e.    
         [0036]    The type of sensors  22  within the reporting unit  20  depends upon the player&#39;s physiological data to be measured, transmitted and monitored. For example, when the reporting unit  20  is configured to measure acceleration of the body part, the sensors  22  are single-axis accelerometers, multi-axis accelerometers, or a combination of both. As another example, to measure the player&#39;s temperature, each reporting unit  20  includes at least one sensor  22  such as a thermistor, which comprises resistive circuit components having a high negative temperature coefficient of resistance so that the resistance decreases as the temperature increases. Alternatively, the temperature sensor  22  is a thermal ribbon sensor or a band-gap type integrated circuit sensor. To measure both the acceleration and temperature of the player&#39;s body part, the sensors  22  can be a combination of accelerometers and thermistors operably connected to the control unit  24 . Where the system  10  is configured for use with a football team to measure and monitor head acceleration and player body temperature, the sensors  22  are accelerometers and thermistors that are arrayed in an in-helmet unit  28  (see  FIG. 4 ) for each player. To measure other physiological parameters, such as the player&#39;s heart rate and blood pressure, the sensors  22  are micro electromechanical system (MEMS) type sensors that use auscultatory and/or oscillometric measurement techniques. In another embodiment, the sensors  22  may include low acceleration (low G) accelerometers that are configured to measure small movements of the player&#39;s head consistent with balance problems. The system  10  includes an algorithm that calculates and observes a player&#39;s balance between plays or during extended stoppages in play, such as when a penalty is being assessed or a timeout. In this manner, the player&#39;s physiological parameter can be measured on the field of play, instead of the sideline. When a player assumes the ready position prior to the commencement of the play, for example a three-point stance, the low G accelerometers and the algorithm would detect player movements indicative of balance problems and a concussion. 
         [0037]    As shown in  FIG. 4 , the in-helmet unit  28  includes a flexible band  30  that houses the sensors  22  and the control unit  24 . The flexible band  30  is received within the internal padding assembly of the helmet  32 , wherein the sensors  22  are positioned about the player&#39;s skull. In this manner, the in-helmet unit  28  is removably received within the helmet  32  to allow for testing and maintenance, including recharging of the battery power source. In one embodiment where the system  10  measures the acceleration of the player&#39;s head, the band  30  is dimensioned such that the sensitive axis of each accelerometer sensor  22  is orthogonal to the outer surface of the player&#39;s head. In another embodiment, the accelerometer sensors  22  are not positioned orthogonal to the head surface. Depending upon the other design parameters of the system  10 , the accelerometer sensors  22  can be positioned either orthogonally or non-orthogonally to each other. While  FIG. 3  depicts three sensors  22  within the reporting unit  20 , the precise number of sensors  22  varies with the design of the system  10 . In the embodiment where the system  10  measures the player&#39;s temperature, the temperature sensor  22  can be placed within the forehead pad of the helmet  32  or at other locations in protective equipment, such as shoulder pads, knee pads, etc. 
         [0038]    In operation, the reporting unit sensors  22  measure the physiological parameter(s) and generate signals in response to the measured parameter value. The sensors  22  can be configured to continuously generate signals in response to the parameter value, or generate signals only when the parameter value reaches or exceeds a threshold level. For example, the sensors  22  can be single-axis accelerometers that measure head acceleration but only generate signals when the sensed head acceleration surpasses 10 G&#39;s. The control unit  24  processes the data signals and transmits them to the sideline controller  40  for calculation and monitoring of the player&#39;s physiological condition. As part of the processing step, the control unit  24  conditions and filters the signals, as necessary, and then encodes the signals with a unique player identifier for transmission to the controller  40 . To support simultaneous transmissions from multiple reporters  20  to the correct controller  40 , the signals sent from each control unit  24  can be divided with time division multiple access (TDMA), code division multiple access (CDMA), or frequency division multiple access (FDMA) technology. Encoding the signals with a unique identifier enables the controller  40  to properly multiplex and decode information from the various reporters  20  transmitting data. Accordingly, the system  10  simultaneously measures and transmits encoded data from a number of reporters  20 , and then the controller  40  catalogs either the encoded data signal for further calculation, or the resultant calculation based upon the relationship between the reporter  20  and the player. Regardless of when the cataloging occurs, the controller  40  organizes each player&#39;s calculated parameter result for further analysis and/or monitoring. In one embodiment, an operator of the system  10  defines the relationship or association between the reporter  20  and the player when the player is issued a helmet or protective gear having the reporter  20 . With the aid of the signaling device  60 , the sideline personnel utilizing the system  10  can then monitor the physiological condition of select players based upon the cataloging of the calculated parameter result. 
         [0039]    Generally, the controller  40  receives the data measured and transmitted by the reporting units  20  and processes the data for meaningful analysis or use. The sideline controller  40  is comprised of a portable microprocessor  42  (e.g., a laptop or portable computer), including a display screen, and a telemetry element  44  operably connected to the microprocessor  42 . The controller  40  is a mobile apparatus that can be transported in a case  46 . Referring to  FIG. 2 , the telemetry element  44  includes an antenna  48 , a transmitter  50 , a receiver  52  (or a combined transceiver), and an encoder  54 . Consistent with that explained above, the telemetry element  44  decodes the encoded signals sent from each reporter  20 , and the controller  40 , primarily the microprocessor  42 , performs the requisite calculation and then multiplexes the results according to the player identifier provided by the reporting unit  20 . In this manner, the controller  40  recognizes the identifier provided by each reporter  20  and organizes the results for each player having a reporter  20 . Alternatively, the controller  40  catalogs the encoded signals, the telemetry element  44  decodes the signals allowing the microprocessor  42  to perform the requisite calculation, and then the controller  40  multiplexes the results according to the player identifier. The controller  40  has a local memory device for storing data received from the reporting units  20  and the subsequently calculated results. Preferably, the memory device of the controller  40  is capable of storing information compiled over an entire season, so if necessary, sideline personnel and/or medical staff can retrieve historical player data when needed. In preferred embodiments, the controller  40  is equipped with software  92  that includes team management information (e.g., complete roster list of players, position of players, identification of active players, etc.) and daily exposure information (e.g., date, game vs. practice, conditions, etc.). The controller  40  also is used to synchronize local data (e.g., one team or historical data) with the centralized database  80 . 
         [0040]    In operation, the controller  40  receives the encoded signal from the reporting unit  20  for the measured physiological parameter (the “Measured Parameter”) and processes the data within the signal to calculate a result for the parameter (the “Parameter Result”). When the Parameter Result reaches or exceeds a predetermined parameter level (hereinafter the “Alert Event”), the controller  40  wirelessly communicates with the signaling device  60 , via the transmitter  50 , thereby alerting the sideline personnel bearing the device  60  of the Alert Event. For each Alert Event, the controller  40  displays the affected player&#39;s identity, for example by name or jersey number, the Measured Parameter, and the time of the Alert Event. However, the player&#39;s identity can be protected by use of a unique player identifier, which may be encoded or encrypted. When the Parameter Result falls below the level and an Alert Event does not occur, the controller  40  continues to receive data from the reporters  20  and performs the requisite calculations. Further, while an Alert Event arises from one reporter  20 , the controller  40  continues to receive and process data from the other reporters  20 . Thus, the system  10  provides active monitoring for all players having a reporter  20 . The time stamp provided by the controller  40  allows sideline personnel and medical staff to correlate the calculated parameter to actual videotape of the sporting event that led to the Alert Event. Once an Alert Event has occurred, the controller  40  sends a signal to the signaling device  60  that alerts the sideline personnel to employ the method  100  for evaluating and treating the player in question, as explained below. The player in question is quickly identified by the controller  40  due to the unique identifier provided by the reporting units  20  and the subsequent recognition of the identifier and the multiplexing performed by the controller  40 . In this manner, the sideline personnel can efficiently evaluate the player in question from among the many players comprising the team. 
         [0041]    In an embodiment of the system  10  where the Measured Parameter is player head acceleration, when an Alert Event occurs, the controller  40  calculates the point of impact on the player&#39;s body part, the cumulative impacts sustained by the player during the current monitoring session, and then graphs the magnitude and duration of recent impacts to the player and/or the body part. As part of this calculation, the controller  40  uses an algorithm to estimate the magnitude of the impact measured by the sensors  22 , wherein the algorithm comports with the disclosure of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/997,832. As an example, when the system  10  calculates a Parameter Result of 80 g&#39;s of head acceleration, which exceeds a predetermined threshold of 50 g&#39;s, an Alert Event results wherein the controller  40  sends a signal to the signaling device  60  providing information to sideline personnel to commence the method  100  for evaluating and treating the player that sustained the Alert Event. 
         [0042]    In the embodiment where the system  10  monitors each player&#39;s body temperature, the controller  40  receives data from the reporting units  20  and then calculates each player&#39;s body surface temperature, the rate of temperature increase and/or decrease versus a selected time interval. In addition to the temperature sensor  22  in the reporting unit  20 , the controller  40  can include an additional temperature and/or humidity sensor to measure ambient conditions and use the resulting data for correction purposes. When the system  10  is configured for player body temperature monitoring in helmeted team sports, the reporting unit  20  can be positioned within the helmet  32  or within other protective equipment worn by each player, such as a shoulder pad assembly. The controller  40  receives the temperature data from each reporter  20  and then applies an algorithm to calculate the player&#39;s body surface temperature, the rate of temperature increase and/or decrease, and other temperature-based parameters that aid in the evaluation of player thermal management. 
         [0043]    As explained above, the signaling device  60  communicates with the controller  40  and provides notice of an Alert Event to the sideline personnel. Preferably, the signaling device  60  is a portable electronic device, such as a pager  62 , a personal digital assistant (PDA)  64 , a cellular telephone, or other electronic device that is capable of receiving data and displaying results transmitted by the controller  40 . Typically, the device  60  is worn or held by sideline personnel, including the training staff, medical personnel and/or coaches. Depending upon the parameters of the system  10 , the signaling device  60  could vibrate or sound an audio alarm when a suspect event is measured and recorded, and inform the wearer of the device  60  of the Alert Event. Regarding the nature of the Alert Event, the device  60  can advise of: the identity of player(s) affected; the nature of the suspect event, including an elevated head acceleration due to impact or a change in a player&#39;s physiological status such as elevated body temperature; and the time of the incident. 
         [0044]    As part of the method  100  of evaluating and treating players that experience an Alert Event, the signaling device  60  is programmed with interactive software  95  that assures best practices are followed in the treatment and documentation of injuries, such as mild traumatic brain injuries (MTBI). The interactive software  95  may include a bundle of team management programs which enables the signaling device  60  to store all team data, including medical histories and testing baselines. The software  95  also provides the signaling device  60  with an active response protocol for guiding sideline personnel through appropriate examination procedures and recording the results. For example, when an Alert Event occurs and the relevant player is brought to the sideline for evaluation, the signaling device  60  can display the individual&#39;s head-injury history, the results of previous evaluations and other pertinent medical data. With the assistance of the software  95 , the signaling device  60  prompts the medical staff member to conduct the appropriate sideline examination, records the responses, compares the results to established baselines and prompts either further testing or a play/no-play decision. The software  95  further includes a bundle of team management tools that includes a roster program which contains all the basic information about each individual player: e.g., contact information, which sports they play (including position and jersey number), emergency information, relevant sizes, equipment issues and availability to play. Information can be stored and sorted in a variety of ways, such as by team, person item and size. The software  95  may also include a session manager program that allows the coaching staff to document incidents as they occur during a practice or a game. The appropriate information about the team, players and conditions is entered at the beginning of each session. Then, as injuries occur, the software  95  provides a template for recording injury data on a per player basis. The data and results stored on the device  60  can be uploaded to the database  80  wherein authorized users can access same for team management and player evaluation functions. 
         [0045]    In another embodiment of the inventive system  10  and method, the controller  40  is omitted and the reporting units  20  interact and communicate directly with the signaling device  60 . In one version of this embodiment, the reporting units  20  measure the physiological parameters as explained above and perform the related calculations within their control unit  24 . All of the calculated results are then transmitted from each reporting unit  20  to the signaling device  60 , for example the PDA  64 , for recordation and monitoring. The device  60  sorts and multiplexes the results while looking for an Alert Event. When the device  60  finds an Alert Event, the device  60  alerts the sideline personnel consistent with that explained above. Alternatively, each reporting unit  20  performs the necessary calculations to arrive at a Parameter Result and then transmits only those results that amount to an Alert Event. In this manner, the reporting unit  20  calculates and transmits the Alert Event whereby the device  60  receives signals from a reduced number of reporters  20 —only those transmitting an Alert Event. In another version of this embodiment, the reporting units  20  measure the physiological parameters and transmit the data signals to the device  60 , for example the PDA  64 , wherein the device  60  performs the related calculations to arrive at the Parameter Result. When the Parameter Result amounts to an Alert Event, the device  60  alerts the sideline personnel to evaluate the player(s) consistent with that explained above. 
         [0046]    Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the system  10  includes at least one database  80  configured to store and provide access to parameter data measured by the reporting devices  20  and calculated data from the controller  40  and the signaling device  60 . For example, the database  80  serves as a team administrator database for the athletic department of a college or university, wherein the database  80  functions as an interactive clearinghouse or warehouse for all athlete information shared among various departments or sports. The database  80  is internet enabled to provide remote access to authorized users, including coaches, trainers, equipment managers and administrators, which allows the users to keep abreast of changes in players&#39; status. The database  80  also provides a host of administrative and management tools for the team and administrative staff. The database  80  can be a component of the college&#39;s broader computer network system and interact with other databases associated with the system  10 . On a smaller level, such as that found in high schools, the database  80  can be located on the sideline controller  40 , wherein personnel associated with the high school have access, either direct or remote. 
         [0047]    As briefly explained above, the system  10  is integrated with a method  100  for evaluating and treating a player. The method  100  includes a number of steps to be performed by qualified sideline personnel, such as trainers, coaches, and/or medical staff, which typically are on or near the sidelines of a sporting event or practice. The method  100  can be initiated in multiple ways: first, when the system  10  detects an Alert Event; second, when qualified sideline personnel observe an elevated physiological parameter or signs thereof, such as an impact to a player or signs that the player sustained an impact; and third, when a player self-reports elevated physiological parameters, such as an impact or the effects of an impact. Regarding the first way to initiate the method  100  and consistent with that explained above, the Alert Event is conveyed to the sideline personnel via the controller  40  and/or the signaling device  60 . One of skill in the art recognizes that the last two ways to initiate the method  100  are subjective and can be based upon the sideline personnel&#39;s experience and level of training, as well as the player&#39;s level of experience and cooperation. 
         [0048]    In one embodiment, the method  100  utilizes a software package or interactive wizards  95  that are loaded onto the signaling device  60 , such as the PDA  64 . As discussed above, when an Alert Event is detected, the controller  40  sends a signal to the signaling device  60  providing relevant information about the Alert Event. For each Alert Event, the signaling device  60  displays the affected player&#39;s number and medical history, the time of the event, and the physiological parameter to be evaluated. In the situation where a head impact results in an Alert Event, the signaling device  60  displays the point of impact on the player&#39;s head, the cumulative impacts sustained by the player during the current sporting session, and graphs the magnitude and duration of recent impacts to the player. The interactive wizards  95  provide testing baselines and an interactive protocol for guiding sideline personnel through appropriate examination procedures. The signaling device  60  records the results and transmits the results to the controller  40  and/or the database  80  for use in further evaluation and treatment of the player. Therefore, whenever an Alert Event occurs and a potentially injured player is brought to the sideline for evaluation, the signaling device  60  displays the individual&#39;s medical and injury history, the results of previous evaluations and other pertinent medical data. Then, the signaling device  60 , through the interactive wizards  95 , prompts the sideline personnel to conduct the appropriate sideline examination, records the responses, compares the results to established baselines, and may prompt further testing. The sideline personnel, which may include certified trainers and/or medical staff, such as physicians, utilize the stored results to evaluate the severity of the player&#39;s condition and to make a return to play (RTP) decision or a no return to play decision for the player. In that latter situation, the player is prevented from playing for a period of time while further observation and testing may be conducted. Additionally, the signaling device  60  can be programmed with wizard programs  95  that assure best practices are followed in the treatment and documentation of mild traumatic brain injuries (MTBI) and elevated body temperatures. 
         [0049]    In another embodiment where the reporting units  20  and the controller  40  are omitted from the system  10 , the signaling device  60  is utilized to evaluate and treat the player after the player self-reports an elevated physiological parameters, or qualified sideline personnel observe an elevated physiological parameters. In this manner, the number of components within the system  10  is reduced; however, the method  100  of evaluating and treating a player remains constant through the use of the signaling device  60  and its interactive wizards. Therefore, the device  60  utilizes the interactive wizard programs  95  to provide testing baselines and an interactive protocol for guiding sideline personnel through the appropriate examination procedures. 
         [0050]    The wireless signaling device  60  is designed to operate as an interactive sideline assistant, providing and receiving necessary equipment and medical information for the evaluation and treatment of players. Thus, the signaling device  60  features wizards, which are integrated, interactive software programs  95  that provide injury/physiological parameter assessment and team management tools. In one embodiment, the wizard software package  95  includes a roster program which contains all the basic information about each individual player: e.g., contact information, which sports they play (including position and jersey number), emergency information, relevant sizes, equipment issues and availability to play. Information can be stored and sorted in a variety of ways, such as by team, person, item and size. The software program  95  includes linked features, such that sideline personnel can access the player&#39;s medical history and risk factors by selecting the player&#39;s name, identifier or uniform number. After an Alert Event has occurred and to assist the sideline personnel with conducting the evaluation and treatment method  100 , the wizard software  95  provides on-field steps, off-field steps and return-to-play sequences. As part of the method  100 , the sideline personnel are prompted by the wizard software  95  to perform the steps and sequences to evaluate and treat the player(s) in question. The signaling device  60  software also includes a session manager program that allows the coaching staff to document incidents as they occur during a practice or a game. The appropriate information about the team, players and conditions (e.g., weather and field conditions, such as artificial turf or natural grass) is entered at the beginning of each session. Then, as injuries or suspected injuries occur, the wizard programs  95  provide a template for recording injury data by player. 
         [0051]    The system  10  includes both on-field aspects and off-field communication aspects that enable the components of the system  10  to communicate and perform the method  100 . Regarding the on-field communication aspects, the reporting units  20 , the sideline controller  40 , the signaling device(s)  60  and the database  80  communicate to provide event data, historical data, and impact data whereby the sideline personnel can evaluate and treat a player that sustains an Alert Event. Regarding the off-field communication aspects, the medical staff, the coaching staff, and/or the training staff can access data and information hosted by the database  80  to manage the diagnosis and/or treatment of various players. For example, the medical staff can log onto a management software program  98  hosted by the database  80  to review a player&#39;s medical history and course of treatment as part of the follow-up evaluation and the RTP decision. The internet-based software program  98  used for off-field aspects is secure such that only authorized users can access player data, medical histories, and treatment information. 
         [0052]      FIGS. 5-10  provide a flowchart of the method  100  of evaluating and treating a player that sustains an Alert Event based upon an impact to the head resulting in a possible concussion. The method  100  commences in one of three ways: first, when the system  10  detects an Alert Event and conveys it to the sideline personnel, via the sideline controller  40  or the signaling device  60 ; second, when the sideline personnel observe a significant impact to a player or signs that the player sustained a significant impact; and third, when a player self-reports an impact or the effects of an impact. 
         [0053]    The first step or component of the method  100  involves an on-field inquiry  200  by the sideline personnel to ascertain the severity of the impact. As part of the on-field inquiry  200 , the sideline personnel should determine whether the player has suffered a loss of consciousness (LOC) and the time duration of the LOC. Provided the player has not suffered a neck injury, experiences bleeding, or displays other serious symptoms, the sideline personnel utilizes the signaling device  60  to presumably grade the concussion as mild, moderate or severe. Due to the fact that the preliminary grading of the concussion into one of three categories is difficult, the concussion grading is subject to revision based upon further observation and the player recovery. Once the suspected concussion is preliminarily assessed or graded into one of these three categories, distinct treatment and evaluation protocols or sequences are provided by the method  100  for the sideline personnel to follow. Therefore, once the level of the concussion is determined, the method  100  provides an interactive protocol for evaluation and treatment of the player that utilizes many evaluation tools, including the mini-battery, the player history, the player risk factors, and the sideline battery. The steps within the protocol enable the sideline personnel to determine whether the player should, among other things, be cleared for a return to play (RTP), further evaluated, or held out of additional play. 
         [0054]    Referring to  FIG. 6A  and assuming the on-field inquiry  200  results in the presumption of a mild grade concussion, the signaling device  60  prompts the sideline personnel to administer a mini-battery of questions  602 . A mild grade concussion may be presumed if the player does not lose consciousness (LOC=0). The mini-battery  602  includes questions directed to the player&#39;s physical condition, (headache, nausea, vision), mental status (memory) and/or coordination. The response to each battery question is recorded by the signaling device  60 , and the battery result is calculated by the device  60 . If the player passes the mini-battery assessment  602 , the sideline personnel consult the player&#39;s medical history  606  and conduct further observation  608 . If the medical history  606  and the subsequent observation  608  provide positive results, the sideline personnel can clear the player for a return to play  612 . The observation  608 , often conducted on the field or sidelines, involves an assessment of whether the player has a speech disturbance, signs of trauma, respiratory troubles, recollection of the impact or hit, coordination or balance problems, and evaluation of the player&#39;s eyes for size, light sensitivity and movement. If the medical history  606  and the subsequent observation  608  provide negative results, the device  60  issues a no return to play (No RTP) warning  614  and further evaluation  616  is scheduled by the signaling device  60  for at least the next 48 hours. If the medical history  606  and the subsequent observation  608  are inconclusive, the sideline personnel can re-perform  610  the mini-battery  602  as step  610  and proceed as explained. 
         [0055]    If the player fails the mini-battery  602 , the player&#39;s medical history and/or risk factor information, including injury and treatment histories, are displayed on the signaling device  60 . In most instances, the sideline personnel determine whether the player has passed or failed the mini-battery  602 . However, depending upon the sophistication of the wizard program  95 , the device  60  can require confirmation of the conclusion reached by the sideline personnel, or in some cases, bypass the conclusion reached by the sideline personnel, wherein the training and experience of the sideline personnel is taken into account by the wizard program  95 . Similarly, the player&#39;s risk factors can also be displayed on the signaling device  60  as part of the mini-battery  602 . If the review of the medical history and risk factors  620  is negative, the player is restricted from further play until further observation  626  and a re-check  630  are conducted. In the event the observation  626  and the re-check  630  are positive, the player can be returned to play  632  and the signaling device  60  schedules further evaluation  634  over at least the next 48 hours. In the event the observation  626  is negative, the device  60  issues a no return to play warning  636 , and the signaling device  60  again schedules further evaluation  638  over at least the next 48 hours. 
         [0056]    If the review of the medical history and risk factors  620  provides a satisfactory observation  626  result, a more comprehensive sideline battery of tests  640  is performed on the player (see  FIG. 6B ). The sideline battery  640  involves a number of steps, including the comprehensive observation of the player&#39;s physical condition and application of standardized concussion criteria, such as the Standardized Assessment of Concussion (SAC) questions. The signaling device  60  prompts the sideline personnel throughout the battery  640  and displays and records the result of the battery  640 . In the event the sideline personnel logged into the signaling device  60  is not qualified to run the battery  640 , due to a lack of training or experience, the device  640  provides an alert advising of such. If the battery  640  results are positive, an observation  644  similar to observation  608  is conducted. If the observation  644  proves satisfactory, the sideline personnel can clear the player for a return to play  646  with further evaluation  648  to be scheduled by the signaling device  60 . If the observation  644  provides negative results, the device  60  provides a warning recommending that the player not be permitted to return to play (No RTP)  650  and further evaluation  652  is scheduled by the signaling device  60  for at least the next 48 hours. In the event the sideline personnel ignore the no return to play warnings provided by the device  60 , the device  60  may request and record confirmation of the sideline personnel&#39;s decision. The device  60  can detect the sideline personnel&#39;s decision to ignore the warning by monitoring whether the sideline personnel attempts to return a player to the active roster list on the wizard program  95 . 
         [0057]    If the battery  640  results are negative, then the player is retested with the sideline battery  640  as step  656 . In the event the player fails the battery retest  656 , the device  60  provides a recommendation that the player not be permitted to return to play  674  and further evaluation  676  is scheduled by the signaling device  60  for at least the next 48 hours. In the event the player passes the battery retest  656 , the sideline personnel are instructed by the signaling device  60  to monitor the player and verify that the player is asymptomatic or not exhibiting concussion symptoms  660  for a period of time after the impact, such as twenty minutes. The asymptomatic time period varies with a number of factors, including but not limited to the nature of the physiological parameter to be measured by the system  10 , the age and experience of the player, the medical history of the player, the presence or absence of risk factors, and the type and intensity of the sporting activity, and the ambient conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity and heat index). The sideline personnel continue to observe  662  the player, wherein the player can return to play  664  if the observation  662  is positive and further evaluation  666  is scheduled by the signaling device  60 . The device  60  warns the sideline personnel that the player should not be permitted to return to play  668  if the observation  662  is negative and the signaling device  60  schedules further evaluations  670 . 
         [0058]    As shown in  FIGS. 6A and 6B , the signaling device  60  utilizes the wizard software  95  to guide the sideline personnel through the steps of the method  10  to evaluate and treat a mild concussion with the use of prompts and instructions. The device  60  stores the data and results of the tests administered by the sideline personnel for subsequent review and evaluation, including that conducted by medical personnel. Also, the device can transfer or upload the test data and results to the controller  40  and/or database  80  for subsequent review and evaluation. In this manner, the test data and results are integrated into the player&#39;s medical history such that the data and results are available to the sideline personnel when the method  10  is subsequently performed, for example in a later game during the season or the next year. Accordingly, the system  10  and the method  100  provide an interactive platform for impact monitoring, evaluation and treatment, wherein earlier test results and data are accessible for the evaluation and treatment of a current condition. 
         [0059]    Referring to  FIG. 7  and assuming the on-field inquiry  200  results in the presumption of a moderate grade concussion, the signaling device  60  provides the player&#39;s medical history and risk factors  705  for consideration by the sideline personnel. A moderate grade concussion may be presumed if the player loses consciousness for less than one minute (LOC&lt;1 minute). After the history and risk factors  705  are considered, the device  60  graphically provides a list of special precautions  710  for the sideline personnel to consider in light of the moderate grade concussion. These precautions  710  are consistent with the standardized warnings for the physiological parameter measured, such as the SAC standards, and may include instructions to observe the physical and/or mental status of the player for an interval of time. Next, the device  60  prompts the sideline personnel to conduct the sideline battery  715 , as explained above (see battery  640  above). If the player fails the battery  715 , the player is not permitted to return to play  760  and further evaluation  765  is scheduled by the signaling device  60  for at least the next 48 hours. If the player passes the battery  715 , the sideline personnel are instructed by the signaling device  60  to monitor the player and verify that the player is asymptomatic or not exhibiting concussion symptoms  725  for a period of time after the impact, such as twenty minutes. The sideline personnel continue to observe  730  the player, wherein the player can return to play  735  if the observation  730  is positive and further evaluation  740  is scheduled by the signaling device  60  for at least the next 48 hours. The device  60  issues a warning recommending that the player should not be permitted to return to play  745  if the observation  730  is negative and the signaling device  60  schedules further evaluations  750 . 
         [0060]    Referring to  FIG. 8  and assuming the on-field inquiry  200  results in the presumption of a severe grade concussion, the signaling device  60  provides the player&#39;s medical history and risk factors  805  for consideration by the sideline personnel. A severe grade concussion may be presumed if the player loses consciousness for greater than or equal to one minute (LOC&gt;1 minute). After the player&#39;s history and risk factors  805  are considered, the device  60  graphically provides a list of special precautions  825  for the sideline personnel to consider in light of the moderate grade concussion. These precautions are consistent with the standardized warnings for the physiological parameter measured, such as the SAC standards, and may include instructions to observe the physical and/or mental status of the player for an interval of time. Depending upon the player&#39;s risk factors  805  and the consideration of the special precautions  825 , the device  60  advises with a warning that the player should not be not permitted to return to play  810  and further evaluation  820  is scheduled by the signaling device  60 . In addition, the device  60  can provide a data output  815  that reports on the player&#39;s condition via the sideline unit  40  or a remote printer. Alternatively, if the player&#39;s vital signs do not stabilize and/or the player experiences difficulty remaining conscious, the device  60  instructs the sideline personnel to seek immediate emergency medical treatment (EMT)  830  for the player. 
         [0061]    As mentioned above, the method  100  has both on-field and off-field communication aspects. Whereas  FIGS. 5-8  primarily concerned on-field communication aspects,  FIG. 9  outlines the off-field communication protocol for a mild concussion. Once the mild grade concussion  900  is presumed, further evaluation  905  and a same day, post-event recheck are performed  910 . Next, a post game test battery  915  is performed, wherein the battery  915  involves assessing the player&#39;s condition with the standardized tests, such as the post-concussion symptoms score (PCSS) and the presence of post traumatic amnesia (PTA). If the player fails the battery  915 , further decision and/or observation  930  is required by the device  60  with elevation to a physician  935  if the player&#39;s condition does not improve. If the player passes the battery  915 , the device  60  instructs the sideline personnel to perform a second battery  945  again after a period of time  940 , such as twenty-four hours. If the player fails the second battery  945 , the device  60  requires further decision and/or observation  960  and elevation to physician  965 , as explained above. The further decision and/or observation  930 ,  960  steps may include a statistical evaluation of the results and any changes therein, such as reliable change index (RCI), to determine if the player should see a physician or specialist. The concussion management team can utilize the RCI for additional guidance since it provides a criterion value above which an observed change in the player&#39;s condition and/or battery results can be considered meaningful. If the player passes the second battery  945 , further observation  975  is conducted with a formal diagnosis  980  to be rendered. Following the diagnosis  980 , which can involve a printed report, the player can be cleared for a return to play  985  after the treatment steps are completed. Alternatively, additional test batteries may be performed after the observation  960  and an additional period of time. 
         [0062]    Accordingly, the system  10  and the method  100  include both on-field and off-field aspects which are integrated and displayed on the signaling device  60 , wherein the device  60  prompts the sideline personnel to perform tasks and records results for review and analysis in order to treat the player. 
         [0063]    A return to play (RTP) protocol of the method  100  for a mild or moderate grade concussion is shown in  FIG. 10 . Typically, the RTP decision for a player is made after discussions among a number of parties, including the training staff, the team and personal physicians, any referral sources. These parties may define the concussion management team (CMT). In most situations, returning an athlete to participation should follow a progression that begins once the athlete is completely symptom free. Preferably, evaluations are performed when the player is at rest and after exertional maneuvers such as biking, jogging, sit-ups and push-ups. Baseline measurements of neuropsychological (NP) testing and postural stability can be used for comparison purposes. 
         [0064]    An example of the RTP protocol for a player who experiences a mild or moderate concussion is shown in  FIG. 10 . If the player reports no symptoms of the concussion  1005  and such is confirmed with testing  1010 , an exertional evaluation  1015  is conducted. If the player fails the evaluation  1015 , further observation  1095  is conducted and a physician may be consulted  1100 . Alternatively and after a first period of time since the no symptom self-report  1005 , a sport specific low-risk test  1040  is conducted. If the player passes the evaluation  1015 , further observation  1095  is conducted and after a period of time  1035  since the no symptom self report  1005 , the sport specific low-risk test  1040  is performed. The test  1040  is sport dependent, and may include lining up in a three-point stance or catching and throwing a football. If the player fails the low-risk test  1040 , further observation  1095  is again conducted and a physician may be consulted  1100 . Alternatively, and after a second period of time since the no symptom self report  1005 , the player may undergo a cognitive/postural test battery  1065 . If the player passes the low-risk test  1040 , further observation  1055  is conducted and after the second period of time  1060 , a cognitive/postural battery  1065  is performed. If the player fails the battery  1065 , further observation  1095  is again conducted and a physician may be consulted  1100 . If the player passes the battery  1065 , the concussion management team (CMT) consults and may agree to allow the player to return to play  1085  in the next practice or game. Once the player has been cleared for a return to play  1085 , the “data card,” a file containing the relevant injury data and information, is returned to the database  80  whereupon it becomes available for subsequent use by the sideline personnel. In this manner, a player&#39;s medical history is current when accessed by the sideline personnel on the signaling device  60  to evaluate and treat a subsequent condition. 
         [0065]    To conduct the interactive protocol of the method  100 , the signaling device  60  includes software wizards  95  that allows for the display of: a team roster; the player history, including on-field incident recordings; the mini-battery  602 ; the sideline battery  640 ; and, the summary of each battery with color-coded pass/fail results. The controller  40  also includes software  92  that provides a variety of displays for consideration on the sideline or away from the playing field. For example, the displays on the wireless PDA  60  and the display  42  of the controller  40  can show a pictorial representation of a single impact and cumulative impacts to the player&#39;s head region. The display can also indicate a number of conditions, including which players by number are in communication with the system  10 . As another example, the system  10  can be configured to graphically display the cumulative impacts on a grid showing magnitude, duration, and location. The level and complexity of the displayed information can be customized based upon a number of factors, including the training and experience of the sideline personnel, and the precise components and features of the system  10 . 
         [0066]    While the foregoing examples relate to an impact to the player&#39;s head, it is understood that the system  10  and method  100  can be applied to evaluate and treat the effects of an impact to a different body part. For example, components of the system  10  can be integrated into a shoulder pad assembly or knee pad assembly, wherein the method  100  is applicable to evaluate and treat an impact to the torso region or the knee. Essentially, the system  10  and the method  100  can be configured for use with body parts other than the head and protective equipment other than a helmet. In addition, the system  10  and method  100  can be configured to monitor other physiological parameters. For example, the system  10  can monitor the player&#39;s body temperature and the method  100  can provide evaluation and treatment protocols when the player&#39;s body temperature exceeds a predefined threshold. 
         [0067]    While the specific embodiments have been illustrated and described, numerous modifications come to mind without significantly departing from the spirit of the invention, and the scope of protection is only limited by the scope of the accompanying Claims.