UCLA CTE Study Update

We FINALLY got the results of the UCLA TBI/Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy Research Study testing back that Michael participated in back in April. This is just some of what they did and...  Aye-yi-yi...   these are HARD to swallow.  

BESS Balance Test.... It measures postural stability and balance. Average adult scores an average of 11/60, a teenager scores about an average of 6/60. The lower the score the better. Mike scored a 41/60. We knew his balance was bad... that's why he's using a walker now. Just didn't realize it was THAT bad and I'm a therapist!

Reaction Time Test.... Average adult scores 150-200 microseconds of response time as an object d
rops about 30-40cm. Mike scored 370 microseconds and that was with the object dropping 57cm.

The King Devick Test... Measures your brain speed using your eyes for reading, tracking, response to things you see. This is one of the quick tests they do it to NFL players on the sidelines after a big hit to determine if they need to come out of the game. for concussion. Average adult can complete the test in 40-50 seconds.  If a NFL football player 60-80 seconds after a hard hit, it indicates a concussion and they are pulled from the game and put on restrictions. Michael scored 138 seconds!!!! (This and the Reaction Time Test are just reinforcement of why the doctors don't want him driving anymore.)

Koschi Outcome Scale... Measures the potential long term prognosis of a TBI. Michael scored a 4B... "Adult is age appropriately independent but has residual problems with learning/behavior and neurological sequelae affecting function. He should have special needs assistance."

Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended.... a commonly used rehab outlook prognosis score used on patients with TBI, coma, or stroke. Michael scored a 5 Lower..... "Patients have some disability such as aphasia, hemiparesis, or epilepsy and/or deficits of memory or personality but are able to look after themselves. They are independent at home but dependent outside and unable to return to work even with special arrangements"

Their overall summary indicates the high likelihood of having Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (aka NFL Football Players Disease)

The upside is these all came today, the day before the deadline for our attorney to turn everything in to the courts in prep for his disability hearing that's coming up.  We actually meet with the attorney TOMORROW to go over the entire case.


Many thanks and much love to all