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The role of neck muscle co-contraction and postural changes in head kinematics after safe head impacts: Investigation of head/neck injury reduction. J Biomech 2021; 128:110732. [PMID: 34509052 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2021.110732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Concerns surrounding concussions from impacts to the head necessitate research to generate new knowledge about ways to prevent them and reduce risk. In this paper, we report the relative temporal characteristics of the head resulting from neck muscle co-contraction and postural changes following a sudden force applied to the head in four different directions. In the two "prepared" conditions (i.e., co-contraction and postural), participants experienced impulsive forces to the head after hearing a warning. The warning given for the postural condition informed both the direction and timing of the impulsive force. Participants responded to the postural warning by altering their head posture, whereas in the co-contraction warning, the force direction was unknown to them, and they were asked to isometrically co-contract their neck muscles after the warning. Peak angular velocity reduced by 29% in sagittal extension, 18% in sagittal flexion, and 23% in coronal lateral flexion in prepared vs. unwarned conditions. Peak linear acceleration was attenuated by 15% in sagittal extension, 8% in sagittal flexion, and 18% in coronal lateral flexion in prepared vs. unwarned conditions. Changes in peak angular acceleration were not uniform. We also measured a significant delay in the peak angular velocity (22 vs. 44.8 ms) and peak angular acceleration (7 vs. 20 ms) after peak linear acceleration in prepared compared to unwarned conditions. An increase in muscle activation significantly reduced the peak angular velocity and linear acceleration. Gross head movement was significantly decreased with preparation. These findings suggest that a warning prior to impact can reduce head kinematics associated with injury.
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Chavarro-Nieto C, Beaven M, Gill N, Hébert-Losier K. Neck strength in Rugby Union players: a systematic review of the literature. PHYSICIAN SPORTSMED 2021; 49:392-409. [PMID: 33554689 DOI: 10.1080/00913847.2021.1886574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The incidence and severity of concussion injuries are increasing every year. Scientific evidence indicates that neck strength and girth could play a role in preventing head and neck injuries, or at least mitigating their severity. We aimed to examine the scientific literature addressing neck strength in Rugby Union with a focus on the potential role of neck strength on injury incidence, neck assessment protocols, neck strength measures, and neck strengthening exercises.We conducted a systematic search of the literature in January 2021 to locate published peer-reviewed articles from PubMed, SPORTDiscusTM, Web of Science®, and Scopus® e-databases. Overall, senior elite male players were stronger than younger-aged players. Forwards were stronger in extension than any other directions assessed, and were generally stronger and possessed larger necks and greater cross-sectional areas when compared to backs. Implementation of isometric exercise routines in professional players was reported to improve neck strength in all directions. There were no studies evaluating the incidence of concussion and neck strength or neck strengthening strategies in Rugby Union. Strengthening the neck continues to be one of the targeted modifiable risk factors with respect to limiting the severity and temporal effects of head injuries in Rugby Union, despite limited evidence regarding direct associations between neck strength and concussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Chavarro-Nieto
- Division of Health, Engineering, Computing and Science, Te Huataki Waiora School of Health, University of Waikato, Tauranga, New Zealand
| | - Martyn Beaven
- Division of Health, Engineering, Computing and Science, Te Huataki Waiora School of Health, University of Waikato, Tauranga, New Zealand
| | - Nicholas Gill
- Division of Health, Engineering, Computing and Science, Te Huataki Waiora School of Health, University of Waikato, Tauranga, New Zealand.,New Zealand Rugby, Thorndon, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Kim Hébert-Losier
- Division of Health, Engineering, Computing and Science, Te Huataki Waiora School of Health, University of Waikato, Tauranga, New Zealand
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Williams EMP, Petrie FJ, Pennington TN, Powell DRL, Arora H, Mackintosh KA, Greybe DG. Sex differences in neck strength and head impact kinematics in university rugby union players. Eur J Sport Sci 2021; 22:1649-1658. [PMID: 34463209 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2021.1973573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Globally, over three million women participate in rugby union, yet injury prevention and training strategies are predominantly based on androcentric data. These strategies may have limited generalisability to females, given the cervical spine is more susceptible to whiplash and less adept at resisting inertial loading. A total of 53 university rugby union players (25 female, 28 male, 20.7 ± 1.8 years) had their isometric neck strength measured. Bespoke instrumented mouthguards were used to record the magnitude of head impact events in six female and seven male competitive matches. Mean female maximal isometric neck strength was 47% lower than male. Independent samples Mann-Whitney U tests showed no significant differences for peak linear head acceleration (female: median 11.7 g, IQR 7.9 g; male: median 12.5 g, IQR 7.0 g p=.23) or peak rotational head acceleration (female: median 800.2 rad·s-2, IQR 677.7 rad·s-2; male: median 849.4 rad·s-2, IQR 479.8 rad·s-2; p=.76), despite the mean male body mass being 24% greater than female. Coded video analysis revealed substantial differences in head-impact mechanisms; uncontrolled whiplash dominated >50% of all recorded female impact events and <0.5% in males. Direct head-to-ground impacts comprised 26.1% of female and 9.7% of male impacts, with whiplash occurring in 78.0% and 0.5%, respectively. Overall, the data provided in this study do not support the generalisation of male-derived training and injury-prevention data to female rugby athletes. These results suggest a considerable research effort is required to identify specific weakness of female rugby players and derive appropriate training, injury prevention and return to play protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth M P Williams
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), Swansea University, Wales, UK
| | - Freja J Petrie
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), Swansea University, Wales, UK
| | - Thomas N Pennington
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), Swansea University, Wales, UK
| | - David R L Powell
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), Swansea University, Wales, UK
| | - Hari Arora
- ZCCE, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Wales, UK
| | - Kelly A Mackintosh
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), Swansea University, Wales, UK
| | - Desney G Greybe
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), Swansea University, Wales, UK
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An isometric neck strengthening program does not improve neck strength in elite women's football-code athletes: A randomised controlled trial. J Sci Med Sport 2021; 25:327-333. [PMID: 34772616 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2021.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of an isometric neck strengthening program to improve isometric neck strength in elite women's football-code athletes. DESIGN Randomised controlled trial. METHODS Elite female soccer (n = 10) and Australian football (n = 30) players were randomised into either a control (n = 20) or experimental (n = 20) group for a 12-week intervention study during their respective seasons. While both groups undertook their prescribed strength and conditioning programs, the experimental group also performed isometric neck strengthening exercises three times per week prior to training. Isometric neck strength of the extensors, flexors, lateral flexors, and rotators were assessed pre, mid (Week 7), and post (Week 13) intervention with a hand-held dynamometer during early to mid-competition season. A mixed design analysis of variance was performed for statistical analysis. RESULTS No significant group-by-time interactions in isometric neck strength were observed. All strength variables displayed a significant change over time throughout the 12-week period (p < 0.05). No significant between group differences in isometric neck strength variables were observed except for lateral left flexion (F(1, 38) =5.064, p = 0.030, η2p = 0.117). CONCLUSIONS The addition of isometric neck strengthening exercises did not improve neck strength beyond a standard strength and conditioning program for elite women's football-code athletes. While this specific program may not improve neck strength in elite women's football-code athletes, further investigation is needed to determine whether sport-specific neck strength exercises may improve neck strength or if lower-level competition athletes may still benefit from an isometric neck strengthening program.
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Attwood MJ, Hudd LJW, Roberts SP, Irwin G, Stokes KA. Eight Weeks of Self-Resisted Neck Strength Training Improves Neck Strength in Age-Grade Rugby Union Players: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. Sports Health 2021; 14:500-507. [PMID: 34558993 DOI: 10.1177/19417381211044736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Greater neck strength is associated with fewer head and neck injuries. Neck-strengthening programs are commonly burdensome, requiring specialist equipment or significant time commitment, which are barriers to implementation. HYPOTHESIS Completing a neck-strengthening program will increase isometric neck strength in age-group rugby players. STUDY DESIGN A pilot randomized controlled exercise intervention study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level 2. METHODS Twenty-eight U18 (under 18) male regional age-group rugby union players were randomized (intervention n =15/control n = 13). An 8-week exercise program was supervised during preseason at the regional training center. Control players continued their "normal practice," which did not include neck-specific strengthening exercises. The 3-times weekly trainer-led intervention program involved a series of 15-second self-resisted contractions, where players pushed maximally against their own head, in forward, backward, left, and right directions. OUTCOME MEASURE Peak isometric neck strength (force N) into neck flexion, extension, and left and right side flexion was measured using a handheld dynamometer. RESULTS Postintervention between-group mean differences (MDs) in isometric neck strength change were adjusted for baseline strength and favored the intervention for total neck strength (effect size [ES] = 1.2, MD ± 95% CI = 155.9 ± 101.9 N, P = 0.004) and for neck strength into extension (ES = 1.0, MD ± 95% CI = 59.9 ± 45.4 N, P = 0.01), left side flexion (ES = 0.7, MD ± 95% CI = 27.5 ± 26.9 N, P = 0.05), and right side flexion (ES = 1.3, MD ± 95% CI = 50.5 ± 34.4 N, P = 0.006). CONCLUSION This resource-efficient neck-strengthening program has few barriers to implementation and provides a clear benefit in U18 players' neck strength. While the present study focused on adolescent rugby players, the program may be appropriate across all sports where head and neck injuries are of concern and resources are limited. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Greater neck strength is associated with fewer head and neck injuries, including concussion. Performing this neck exercise program independently, or as part of a whole-body program like Activate, an interactive guide for players and coaches, could contribute to lower sports-related head and neck injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Attwood
- Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Lewis-Jon W Hudd
- Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Gareth Irwin
- Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Keith A Stokes
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK.,Rugby Football Union, Twickenham, UK
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Sako K, Tanaka Y, Tomita Y, Yoshida T, Ono Y, Kashiwagi K. Effect of jaw clenching on head acceleration during a predictable load impact. J Oral Rehabil 2021; 48:1327-1336. [PMID: 34499760 DOI: 10.1111/joor.13254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Jaw clenching is considered to reduce head acceleration while receiving a strong impact on the body during sport activities. OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to clarify the effect of jaw clenching on reduction of head acceleration during a predictable load impact to the body. METHODS Seven healthy participants were exposed to a predictable load impact with and without jaw clenching. We recorded the electromyographic activity of the masseter (MA) and digastricus (DIG) muscles, occlusal pressure and head acceleration throughout the experiment. RESULTS When participants were not instructed to clench their jaws, they naturally positioned their jaws without occlusal contact at the time of pendulum impact by co-contracting the jaw opener and closer muscles. When participants were instructed to clench their jaws, neither the activity of the jaw opener muscle nor the head acceleration differed at the time of pendulum impact when compared with when participants were not instructed to clench their jaws. CONCLUSIONS A slightly distanced jaw position (co-contracting the jaw opener and closer muscles without occlusal contact) might serve inherently safety for reduction of head acceleration during predictable body impact, while jaw clenching does not contribute to reduction of head acceleration in response to pendulum impact more than the distanced jaw position does. Notably, DIG activation to minimise the head acceleration in response to pendulum impact was similar in clenching and no clenching positions. This suggests that DIG may play a crucial role in the reduction of head acceleration, regardless of MA muscle activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuki Sako
- Department of Fixed Prosthodontics and Occlusion, Osaka Dental University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Yuto Tanaka
- Department of Special Care Dentistry, Osaka Dental University Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yosuke Tomita
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Care, Takasaki University of Health and Welfare, Takasaki, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Yoshida
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Care, Takasaki University of Health and Welfare, Takasaki, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Ono
- Department of Special Care Dentistry, Osaka Dental University Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kosuke Kashiwagi
- Department of Fixed Prosthodontics and Occlusion, Osaka Dental University, Hirakata, Japan
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Commotions cérébrales chez les footballeuses particularité et prise en charge. Sci Sports 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scispo.2020.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Blyth RJ, Alcock M, Tumilty DS. Why are female soccer players experiencing a concussion more often than their male counterparts? A scoping review. Phys Ther Sport 2021; 52:54-68. [PMID: 34419893 DOI: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2021.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The risk of concussion is particularly high in female soccer players. There is no consensus as to why female soccer players are at an elevated risk. OBJECTIVE To synthesise current evidence investigating reasons for the increased concussion rate in female soccer players. SOURCES Searching of six databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL, SportDiscus, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library) and grey literature was performed between 13/07/2020-31/07/2020. Keywords were concussion-related terms, terms relating to female football/soccer and terms relating to the mechanism/cause. No constraints were placed on publication date and quantitative or exploratory studies meeting inclusion criteria were eligible. Exclusion criteria were studies not published in English and qualitative studies. RESULTS Several hypotheses were identified to explain increased concussion rates in female soccer players, these include, reduced neck strength/anthropometrics, increased head acceleration, increased ball-to-head concussions, differences in hormones and brain structure/function, and reduced visual awareness. CONCLUSION Promising ideas/reasons have been identified for increased concussion rates in female soccer players. Despite hypothesis generation there is scarce high-level evidence which is required to guide injury prevention and/or rule changes to protect female soccer players. The level of evidence for included studies is level 2-3 with most being observational cross-sectional or cohort studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Jane Blyth
- School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago, 325 Great King Street, North Dunedin, Dunedin, 9016, New Zealand.
| | - Mark Alcock
- School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago, 325 Great King Street, North Dunedin, Dunedin, 9016, New Zealand
| | - Dr Steve Tumilty
- School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago, 325 Great King Street, North Dunedin, Dunedin, 9016, New Zealand
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Brooks JS, Allison W, Harriss A, Bian K, Mao H, Dickey JP. Purposeful Heading Performed by Female Youth Soccer Players Leads to Strain Development in Deep Brain Structures. Neurotrauma Rep 2021; 2:354-362. [PMID: 34901935 PMCID: PMC8655815 DOI: 10.1089/neur.2021.0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Head impacts in soccer have been associated with both short- and long-term neurological consequences. Youth players' brains are especially vulnerable given that their brains are still developing, and females are at an increased risk of traumatic brain injury (TBI) compared to males. Approximately 90% of head impacts in soccer occur from purposeful heading. Accordingly, this study assessed the relationship between kinematic variables and brain strain during purposeful headers in female youth soccer players. A convenience sample of 36 youth female soccer players (13.4 [0.9] years of age) from three elite youth soccer teams wore wireless sensors to quantify head impact magnitudes during games. Purposeful heading events were categorized by game scenario (e.g., throw-in, goal kick) for 60 regular season games (20 games per team). A total of 434 purposeful headers were identified. Finite element model simulations were performed to calculate average peak maximum principal strain (APMPS) in the corpus callosum, thalamus, and brainstem on a subset of 110 representative head impacts. Rotational velocity was strongly associated with APMPS in these three regions of the brain (r = 0.83-0.87). Linear acceleration was weakly associated with APMPS (r = 0.13-0.31). Game scenario did not predict APMPS during soccer games (p > 0.05). Results demonstrated considerable APMPS in the corpus callosum (mean = 0.102) and thalamus (mean = 0.083). In addition, the results support the notion that rotational velocity is a better predictor of brain strain than linear acceleration and may be a potential indicator of changes to the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey S. Brooks
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wayne Allison
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexandra Harriss
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kewei Bian
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Haojie Mao
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - James P. Dickey
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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60
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Sokol-Randell D, Rotundo MP, Tierney G, Deasy C, Cusimano MD. Characteristics of potential concussive events in elite male gaelic football players: A descriptive video-analysis. J Sports Sci 2021; 39:1700-1708. [PMID: 33722171 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2021.1896455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Gaelic football (GF) is a high-impact sport and Sport-Related Concussion (SRC) is an issue within the game. Our aim was to evaluate the characteristics of Potential Concussive Events (PCEs) that occur in the Gaelic Athletic Association National Football League and extrapolate this data to reduce the incidence and severity of SRC. PCEs may or may not lead to a clinical diagnosis of SRC, but represent high-risk events and therefore may be a useful indicator. A video-analysis approach was undertaken to identify PCEs throughout two seasons of play using broadcast footage, and characteristics of each PCE were measured based on previously validated methods. A total of 242 PCEs were identified over 111 matches (2.18 per match, 58.14 per 1000 hours of exposure). PCEs were frequently not anticipated by the player (40.5%, n = 98). The most common impact locations were the mandibular region (33.1%, n = 80) and the temporal region (21.1%, n = 51), and the most frequently observed mechanism was hand/fist to head (27.3%, n = 66). A second-hit was observed in 34 PCEs (14.0%). The findings provide initial guidance for the development of player protection strategies to reduce the incidence and severity of SRC in Gaelic Football.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Conor Deasy
- Cork University Hospital Emergency Department, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Michael D Cusimano
- Division of Neurosurgery, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Zynda AJ, Petit KM, Anderson M, Tomczyk CP, Covassin T. Removal From Activity After Sports- Related Concussion in Sex-Comparable Sports From the Michigan High School Athletic Association. Am J Sports Med 2021; 49:2810-2816. [PMID: 34181487 DOI: 10.1177/03635465211020007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has demonstrated that female athletes are more likely to report their sports-related concussion (SRC) symptoms compared with male athletes; however, it is unknown if these reporting behaviors correspond to immediate removal from activity in sex-comparable sports. PURPOSE To compare the incidence of high school student-athletes removed and not removed from activity after SRC in sex-comparable sports in Michigan. STUDY DESIGN Descriptive epidemiology study. METHODS Participants included student-athletes diagnosed with SRC participating in Michigan High School Athletic Association-sponsored athletic activities (22 sex-comparable sports) between 2016 and 2019. All SRCs were recorded in the association's Head Injury Reporting System (HIRS) by certified athletic trainers, administrators, or coaches. Removal from activity indicated that the student-athlete was removed from play at the time of an injury event. If the student-athlete reported that his or her suspected injury event occurred earlier during activity or if symptom onset was delayed, "not removed from activity" was entered into the HIRS. Incidence proportions were calculated by dividing SRCs not removed by total SRCs in each sport. Risk ratios were calculated by dividing the incidence proportions of girls not removed by boys not removed in each sport. RESULTS A total of 4418 (2773 female, 1645 male) SRCs were reported, with the most occurring in female soccer players (n = 1023). Overall, 515 girls and 243 boys were not removed from activity, resulting in incidences of 0.19 (95% CI, 0.17-0.20) and 0.15 (95% CI, 0.13-0.17), respectively. Across all sports, girls were 1.26 (95% CI, 1.09-1.45) times as likely to not be removed from activity compared with boys. Of the sports with the most SRCs-soccer, basketball, baseball/softball, and lacrosse-girls had 1.37 (95% CI, 1.09-1.72), 1.15 (95% CI, 0.89-1.47), 1.19 (95% CI, 0.77-1.84), and 1.35 (95% CI, 0.94-1.95) times the risk of not being removed, respectively. CONCLUSION Girls were at greater risk of not being removed from activity compared with boys in sex-comparable sports. Results from this study should be incorporated into SRC education in Michigan and potentially elsewhere to inform affiliated personnel of potential sex differences and protect female student-athletes from further harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron J Zynda
- Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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An Accessible, 16-Week Neck Strength Training Program Improves Head Kinematics Following Chest Perturbation in Young Soccer Athletes. J Sport Rehabil 2021; 30:1158-1165. [PMID: 34330102 DOI: 10.1123/jsr.2020-0537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Neck size and strength may be associated with head kinematics and concussion risks. However, there is a paucity of research examining neck strengthening and head kinematics in youths. In addition, neck training is likely lacking in youth sport due to a perceived inadequacy of equipment or time. OBJECTIVE Examine neck training effects with minimal equipment on neck strength and head kinematics following chest perturbations in youth athletes. DESIGN Single-group, pretest-posttest case series. SETTING Athlete training center. PARTICIPANTS Twenty-five (14 men and 11 women) youth soccer athletes (9.8 [1.5] y). INTERVENTION Sixteen weeks of twice-weekly neck-focused resistance training utilizing bands, body weight, and manual resistance. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Head kinematics (angular range of motion, peak anterior-posterior linear acceleration, and peak resultant linear acceleration) were measured by an inertial motion unit fixed to the apex of the head during torso perturbations. Neck-flexion and extension strength were assessed using weights placed on the forehead and a plate-loaded neck harness, respectively. Neck length and circumference were measured via measuring tape. RESULTS Neck extension (increase in median values for all: +4.5 kg, +100%, P < .001; females: +4.5 kg, +100%, P = .002; males: +2.2 kg, +36%, P = .003) and flexion (all: +3.6 kg, +114%, P < .001; females: +3.6 kg, +114%, P = .004; males: +3.6 kg, +114%, P = .001) strength increased following the intervention. Men and women both experienced reduced perturbation-induced head pitch (all: -84%, P < .001). However, peak resultant linear acceleration decreased in the female (-53%, P = .004), but not male (-31%, P = 1.0) subgroup. Preintervention peak resultant linear acceleration and extension strength (R2 = .21, P = .033) were the closest-to-significance associations between head kinematics and strength. CONCLUSIONS Young athletes can improve neck strength and reduce perturbation-induced head kinematics following a 16-week neck strengthening program. However, further research is needed to determine the effect of improved strength and head stabilization on concussion injury rates.
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63
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Reddy C, Zhou Y, Wan B, Zhang X. Sex and posture dependence of neck muscle size-strength relationships. J Biomech 2021; 127:110660. [PMID: 34364186 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2021.110660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Neck muscle size and strength have been linked to lower injury risk and reduced pain. However, prior findings have been inconclusive and have failed to clarify whether there are sex differences in neck muscle size-strength relationships. Such differences may point to an underlying cause for the reported sex difference in neck pain prevalence. Thirty participants (13 males, 17 females) who underwent neck strength testing and MR imaging were analyzed. Strength was measured in three conditions that differed in posture and exertion direction. Muscle size was quantified by three metrics: anatomical cross-sectional area (ACSA), muscle volume (MV), and an estimate of physiological cross-sectional area-reconstruction-based cross-sectional area (RCSA). Inter-posture strength correlations, muscle size-strength correlations, and sex differences were analyzed with linear regression. Males were approximately 65% stronger and had significantly larger muscles. Strength varied significantly across postures, but only female strength values for different postures were significantly correlated. Observed in males only, the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) was a strong predictor of flexion strength in the neutral posture while the anterior scalene (AS) was more involved in the extended. No extensor's size was significantly linked to extension strength. A greater amount of force variation is unexplained by muscle size alone in females than in males. Males and females exhibited distinct size-strength relationships, highlighting the need for sex-specific models and analyses and the greater potential effect of non-morphometric factors on force generating capacity in females. No advantage of one muscle size metric over another in strength prediction was evidenced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Curran Reddy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University
| | - Yu Zhou
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Texas A&M University
| | - Bocheng Wan
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Texas A&M University
| | - Xudong Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University; Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Texas A&M University; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Texas A&M University.
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Hellewell SC, Welton T, Pearce AJ, Maller JJ, Grieve SM. Diffusion MRI as a complementary assessment to cognition, emotion, and motor dysfunction after sports-related concussion: a systematic review and critical appraisal of the literature. Brain Imaging Behav 2021; 15:1685-1704. [PMID: 32720180 DOI: 10.1007/s11682-020-00336-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Sports-related concussion (SRC) is a complex and heterogeneous injury with psychological, cognitive and functional consequences. Advances in diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) allow sensitive measurement of white matter pathology post-SRC and may provide insight into injury and recovery. We systematically reviewed and meta-analyzed the literature examining dMRI alongside cognitive, emotional or motor assessments to determine relationships between these analyses. Sixteen studies examining young athletes (n = 6) or retired professionals (n = 10) met the inclusion criteria, with 12 emotional, 10 cognitive and four motor assessments. Studies had heterogeneous methodology, moderate quality and modest sample sizes. Fractional anisotropy (FA) was the most frequent dMRI metric, with SRC-induced changes described most commonly in the frontal lobe and least in the cerebellum and brainstem. There is an emerging complementary role for dMRI as part of a comprehensive assessment battery for SRC. However, larger-scale studies with broader subject populations (specifically, in females and in the 30-45 year age range) are needed to corroborate findings and determine the true diagnostic utility of dMRI post-SRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah C Hellewell
- Imaging and Phenotyping Laboratory, Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Thomas Welton
- Imaging and Phenotyping Laboratory, Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Alan J Pearce
- School of Allied Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Jerome J Maller
- Imaging and Phenotyping Laboratory, Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia.,General Electric Healthcare, Richmond, VIC, 3181, Australia
| | - Stuart M Grieve
- Imaging and Phenotyping Laboratory, Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia. .,Department of Radiology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia.
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Johnson B, Walter AE, Wilkes JR, Papa L, Slobounov SM. Changes in White Matter of the Cervical Spinal Cord after a Single Season of Collegiate Football. Neurotrauma Rep 2021; 2:84-93. [PMID: 34223548 PMCID: PMC8240824 DOI: 10.1089/neur.2020.0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The involvement of the central nervous system (CNS), specifically the white matter tracts in the cervical spinal cord, was examined with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) following exposure to repetitive head acceleration events (HAEs) after a single season of collegiate football. Fifteen National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division 1 football players underwent DTI of the cervical spinal cord (vertebral level C1–4) at pre-season (before any contact practices began) and post-season (within 1 week of the last regular season game) intervals. Helmet accelerometer data were also collected in parallel throughout the season. From pre-season to post-season, a significant decrease (p < 0.05) of axial diffusivity was seen within the right spino-olivary tract. In addition, a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in global white matter fractional anisotropy (FA) along with increases (p < 0.05) in global white matter mean diffusivity (MD) and radial diffusivity (RD) were found. These changes in FA from pre-season to post-season were significantly moderated by previous concussion history (p < 0.05) and number of HAEs over 80 g (p < 0.05). Despite the absence of sports-related concussion (SRC), we present measurable changes in the white matter integrity of the cervical spinal cord suggesting injury from repetitive HAEs, or SRC, may include the entirety of the CNS, not just the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Johnson
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Alexa E Walter
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - James R Wilkes
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Linda Papa
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Orlando Regional Medical Center, Orlando, Florida, USA.,Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Semyon M Slobounov
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
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Injury Reduction Programs for Reducing the Incidence of Sport-Related Head and Neck Injuries Including Concussion: A Systematic Review. Sports Med 2021; 51:2373-2388. [PMID: 34143411 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-021-01501-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sport-related head and neck injuries, including concussion, are a growing global public health concern with a need to explore injury risk reduction strategies such as neck exercises. OBJECTIVES To systematically review the literature to investigate: (1) the relationship between neck strength and sport-related head and neck injuries (including sport-related concussion (SRC); and (2) whether neck exercise programs can reduce the incidence of (a) sport-related head and neck injuries; and (b) SRC. METHODS Five databases (Ovid MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science) and research lists of included studies were searched using a combination of medical subject headings and keywords to locate original studies which reported the association between incidence of head and/or neck injury and neck strength data, or included a neck exercise intervention either in isolation or as part of a more comprehensive exercise program. RESULTS From an initial search of 593 studies, six were included in this review. A narrative synthesis was performed due to the heterogeneity of the included studies. The results of two observational studies reported that higher neck strength, but not deep neck flexor endurance, is associated with a lower risk of sustaining a SRC. Four intervention studies demonstrated that injury reduction programs that included neck exercises can reduce the incidence of sport-related head and neck injuries including SRC. CONCLUSION Consideration should be given towards incorporating neck exercises into injury reduction exercise programs to reduce the incidence of sport-related head and neck injuries, including SRC. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO (registration number: 194217).
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Abstract
Recent public concern over the short- and long-term effects of repetitive head impacts (RHI) associated with purposeful heading in soccer has led researchers to study a multitude of variables related to this important aspect of the game. Of particular interests are the effects of soccer heading in the youth population (≤ 13 years old) whose brains are undergoing rapid development. We conducted a review on youth soccer heading that includes purposeful heading frequency, head impact biomechanics, head injuries, clinical outcomes, and modifying factors. We have concluded that youth soccer players head the ball at a low frequency that typically increases with age and with a finding that boys head the ball more often than girls do. Interestingly, although girls head the ball less frequently than boys do, they tend to sustain higher head impact magnitudes. Head injuries are more likely to occur in girls versus boys and during games because of contact with another player. Clinical outcome measures of concussion are often utilized to study the effects of soccer heading, in both field and laboratory environments. Immediately following soccer heading, youth often report having a headache and demonstrate some deficits in balance measures. Modifying factors that may benefit soccer players participating in purposeful heading activities include stronger neck musculature, wearing headgear, and the use of mouthguards. Research involving youth soccer players needs to be expanded and funded appropriately to better understand the consequences of RHI in both the short and long term.
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Garnett D, Patricios J, Cobbing S. Physical Conditioning Strategies for the Prevention of Concussion in Sport: a Scoping Review. SPORTS MEDICINE-OPEN 2021; 7:31. [PMID: 33999301 PMCID: PMC8128965 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-021-00312-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Concussion in sports has received a great deal of media attention and may result in short and longer-lasting symptoms, especially in adolescents. Although significant strides have been made in the identification and management of concussion, less is known about the primary prevention of this condition. The aims of this scoping review are to (1) summarize the current research of physical conditioning strategies to reduce or prevent concussion incidence in individuals participating in sport, especially adolescents, and (2) to identify gaps in the knowledge base. Our research question was what is known from the existing literature about physical preparation strategies to reduce or prevent concussion in adult and adolescent sports? METHODS Three literature searches were conducted by information officers at two universities at six-month intervals, using five electronic databases (PubMed; WorldCat.org ; Mendeley; EBSCOHost and Ovid MEDLINE). To increase the search range, subject experts were consulted and articles and reference lists were hand searched. A scoping review methodology identified eligible studies that analyzed physical preparation techniques on modifiable physical risk factors in athletes to reduce the incidence of concussion. The PRISMA-ScR checklist guided the reporting of the findings. RESULTS A total of 1414 possible articles were identified, after duplicates removed, and articles analyzed against the inclusion and exclusion criteria, only 9 articles qualified for analysis. Two articles were found from studying reference lists. Thus, a total of 11 articles were included in the final evaluation for the purposes of this study. Data are reported from mostly adolescent subjects participating in nine different sports from three countries. Findings are presented with specific reference to previously recognized modifiable risk factors of concussion which include neck strength, neck size, cervical stiffness, type of sport, and pre-activity exercises. CONCLUSIONS There is limited research examining the physical preparation of athletes, especially in adolescents, to reduce or prevent concussion, and conflicting evidence in the few small sample studies that were identified. This scoping review identifies the research gap for a potentially vital modifiable risk factor, notably in the physical preparation of children and adolescents to reduce or prevent sports-related concussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Garnett
- Physiotherapy Department, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, South Africa. .,Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Jon Patricios
- Wits Sport and Health (WiSH), School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Saul Cobbing
- Physiotherapy Department, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Archbold P, Rankin AT, Webb M, Davies R, Nicholas R, Eames NWA, Wilson RK, Vincent J, McKeever D, Duddy K, Matthews M, Bleakley C. Injury patterns in U15 rugby players in Ulster schools: A Rugby Injury Surveillance (RISUS) Study. TRANSLATIONAL SPORTS MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/tsm2.248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Cheever K, McDevitt J, Phillips J, Kawata K. The Role of Cervical Symptoms in Post-concussion Management: A Systematic Review. Sports Med 2021; 51:1875-1891. [PMID: 33891292 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-021-01469-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with cervicogenic symptoms following a concussion have shown a disproportionate rate of delayed symptom resolution. However, the prevalence of cervicogenic symptoms in the acute stages following a concussion and the percentage of those patients who continue on to suffer delayed symptom resolution is poorly described in the literature. OBJECTIVES To provide a comprehensive report on the clinical prevalence, diagnostic methods, and potential treatment options for cervicogenic symptoms that are elicited during acute and chronic phases following a concussion. METHODS Electronic searches were conducted in PubMed, SPORTDiscus, ICL, CINAHL and PEDro, from inception to May 2020, to identify original research articles on concussion involving cervicogenic symptoms. We assessed each included article for risk of bias, methodological quality, level of evidence and evidence quality. The articles were categorized into three topics: (1) prevalence of post-concussion cervicogenic symptoms; (2) diagnostic testing for cervicogenic symptoms, and (3) treatment techniques for cervicogenic symptoms. RESULTS The initial review resulted in 1443 abstracts, of which 103 abstracts met the inclusion criteria of our research. After the review of full text, 80 articles were excluded, which resulted in a total of 23 articles for this systematic review. Prevalence of cervicogenic symptoms in the acute stages ranged from 7 to 69% and increased to 90% in patients experiencing persistent post-concussive symptoms. Neck pain at initial evaluation increased risk of developing persistent post-concussive symptoms (PPCS) by 2.58-6.38 times. Patient-reported outcome measures (e.g., Neck Disability Index, Dizziness Handicap Inventory, and Rivermead Post-Concussion Questionnaire) can identify patients with cervicogenic symptoms that should be further differentiated by clinical testing. Lastly, treatment using graded cervical manual therapy has shown to reduce time to symptom resolution and medical clearance. CONCLUSIONS Cervicogenic symptoms are prevalent in the acute and chronic stages following concussion, which if not diagnosed appropriately increase the likelihood of PPCS. Several clinical tests are available to help differentiate cervicogenic symptoms; however, lack of awareness and hesitation by practitioners limits their use. More randomized controlled trials are necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of cervical specific treatment programs for PPCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Cheever
- Department of Kinesiology, College for Health, Community and Policy, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA cir, San Antonio, TX, 78429, USA.
| | - Jane McDevitt
- Depart of Health and Rehabilitation Science, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jacqueline Phillips
- Department of Kinesiology, College of Public, Health Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Keisuke Kawata
- Department of Kinesiology, School of Public Health-Bloomington, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, College of Arts and Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
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71
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van Ierssel J, Ledoux AA, Tang K, Zemek R. Sex-Based Differences in Symptoms with Mouthguard Use Following Pediatric Sport-Related Concussion. J Athl Train 2021; 56:1188-1196. [PMID: 33848349 PMCID: PMC8582634 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0393.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Current evidence regarding the protective effect of mouthguard use on symptom severity in children and adolescents who sustain sport-related concussions is insufficient to make clinical recommendations. OBJECTIVE To compare the association between mouthguard-use and symptoms stratified by sex in the first 4-weeks after pediatric sport-related concussion. We hypothesized that mouthguard-use would be associated with lower symptoms. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Nine Canadian pediatric emergency departments (EDs). PATIENTS Children aged 5-18 years presenting ≤48 hours of concussion sustained during a collision or contact sport. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Injury characteristics were collected using the Acute Concussion Evaluation. Primary outcome measure was symptom score (0-6), measured using age-appropriate versions (5-7 years; 8-12 years; 13-18 years) of the Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory. Independent variable was time postconcussion (at initial assessment, 1-, 2-, 4, weeks). RESULTS Of 1019 children (73% male; median [IQR] age=13.43[11.01,15.27] years), 42% wore a mouthguard at time of injury. There was no significant group by sex by time interaction for symptoms (χ23=0.27; p=.965). Male mouthguard users reported similar symptom scores in the ED (diff=-0.07; 95%CI:-0.23,0.09), at week-1 (diff=-0.02; 95%CI:-0.18,0.14), week-2 (diff=-0.03; 95%CI:-0.19,0.13), and week-4 (diff=-0.13; 95%CI:-0.29,0.04) compared with males who didn't wear a mouthguard. Female mouthguard users reported minimally higher symptom scores at week-1 compared with non-mouthguard users (diff=0.29; 95%CI:0.01,0.56). Symptom scores were not significantly different for females who wore a mouthguard and those who didn't in the ED (diff=0.22; 95%CI:-0.04,0.48), at week-2 (diff=0.22; 95%CI:-0.06,0.51), or week-4 (diff=0.08; 95%CI:-0.20,0.36). CONCLUSION Wearing a mouthguard at time of injury is not associated with reduced acute and subacute symptoms after sport-related concussion in either males or females who were treated in the ED compared with those who did not wear a mouthguard. Athletes are still encouraged to wear a mouthguard during sports since overwhelming evidence supports their use in preventing dental injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrée-Anne Ledoux
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada.,University of Ottawa, Faculty of Medicine, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Ken Tang
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Roger Zemek
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada.,University of Ottawa, Faculty of Medicine, Ottawa, Canada
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72
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Wilson JC, Levek C, Daoud AK, Brewer M, Brooks K, Sochanska A, Randall M, Provance AJ. Web-Based Exercise Program Increases Cervical Strength in Adolescent Athletes. J Strength Cond Res 2021; 35:1149-1155. [PMID: 30335712 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000002907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Wilson, JC, Levek, C, Daoud, AK, Brewer, M, Brooks, K, Sochanska, A, Randall, M, and Provance, AJ. Web-based exercise program increases cervical strength in adolescent athletes. J Strength Cond Res 35(4): 1149-1155, 2021-This cohort study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a web-based 6-week cervical strengthening program on cervical strength in adolescent athletes. It was hypothesized that subjects completing the program would demonstrate significant increase in cervical muscle strength compared with baseline strength. Eighty-three high school soccer athlete subjects were recruited from 2 local nationally competitive soccer clubs. Teams were assigned to either control or intervention groups to minimize information crossover. Fifty subjects were recruited to the intervention group (29 male, 21 female; average age 15.1 years). Thirty-three subjects were recruited to the control group (21 male, 12 female; average age 15.1 years). Intervention group subjects completed a web-based progressive cervical strengthening program over 6 weeks. Cervical strength in flexion, extension, right and left lateral flexion (LLF) was measured in Newton (N) of force at 3 time points during the competitive season for both control and intervention groups. Intervention group subjects significantly increased cervical strength [mean difference (95% confidence interval)] in LLF [24.1 (15.9-32.4)], extension [27.9 (18.4-37.5)], right lateral flexion [18.8 (11.6-26.1)], and flexion [mean ratio: 1.2 (1.1-1.2)] at follow-up testing; whereas control subjects did not see significant changes in strength. A web-based progressive cervical strengthening program improves cervical muscular strength in a population of adolescent athletes over a period of 6 weeks. Such a program could be used by researchers in future studies evaluating the influence on concussion risk and by practitioners as a means of reducing sport-related head and neck injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie C Wilson
- Orthopedics Institute, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado.,Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado; and
| | - Claire Levek
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Ariel K Daoud
- Orthopedics Institute, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Matthew Brewer
- Orthopedics Institute, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Katelyn Brooks
- Orthopedics Institute, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Ada Sochanska
- Orthopedics Institute, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Melissa Randall
- Orthopedics Institute, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Aaron J Provance
- Orthopedics Institute, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado.,Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado; and
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Fitzpatrick D, Thompson P, Kipps C, Webborn N. Head impact forces in blind football are greater in competition than training and increased cervical strength may reduce impact magnitude. Int J Inj Contr Saf Promot 2021; 28:194-200. [PMID: 33781178 DOI: 10.1080/17457300.2021.1905667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Paralympic Blind Association Football has the highest rate of injury of any Paralympic sport and head injuries are common. This study aims to quantify head impact incidence and magnitude in Blind Football, and to examine contributing factors. This Observational study based on a Blind Football Team comprising seven male athletes 28.63 years (SD 9.74, range 16-46) over 6 months. Head mounted impact sensors were used to measure the frequency and location of impacts, as well as their linear acceleration and rotational velocity. Cervical isometric strength and proprioception was measured. There were 374 impacts recorded in 212.5 athlete hours. There was a higher rate of impacts in matches than training (Incidence Risk Ratio 2.58, 95% CI 2.01-3.30). Greater cervical strength was associated with reduced linear acceleration of impacts (R2 = 0.1912, p = .020). Blind Football players are exposed to a greater number of head impacts in matches than training. Neck muscle strength may influence magnitude of head impact forces in this sport but further study is required to further investigate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Fitzpatrick
- Centre for Sport and Exercise Science and Medicine, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK.,Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Courtney Kipps
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nick Webborn
- Centre for Sport and Exercise Science and Medicine, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
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The concurrent validity and intrarater reliability of a hand-held dynamometer for the assessment of neck strength in semi-professional rugby union players. Phys Ther Sport 2021; 49:229-235. [PMID: 33794446 DOI: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2021.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The main objective of this study was to determine the concurrent validity between a hand-held (HHD) and mounted hand-held dynamometer (MHHD) for assessing isometric neck strength. DESIGN Observational design. SETTING Semiprofessional rugby club. PARTICIPANTS Nineteen semi-professional rugby players (age = 26 ± 5 years, stature = 186.5 ± 6.5 cm, body mass = 98.7 ± 12.8 kg). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Concurrent validity (limits of agreement, correlation) between HHD and MHHD, the intrarater reliability (intra-class correlation, ICC) and comparison between playing positions. RESULTS Absolute peak and mean peak force were systematically lower when using the HHD compared to MHHD, with the mean bias ranging from -1.8 to -3.8 kgf (P < 0.05). Differences were not evident for flexion when applying the correction equations (-0.5 to 2.1 kgf, P > 0.05) but remained for extension. Correlations between methods were large-to-very large; the ICCs for both methods were good (ICC = 0.72-0.89), with no difference between positions (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION The concurrent validity of HHD was considered acceptable when compared to the MHHD and the correction equation applied. Both methods are reliable and useful for assessing neck strength in rugby players, though, caution is needed when determining strength during neck extension.
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75
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Cheever K, McDevit J, Wright WG, Tierney R. Differences in cervical kinesthesia between amateur athletes with and without a history of contact sport participation. Brain Inj 2021; 35:404-410. [PMID: 33523714 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2021.1878551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Identify cervical sensorimotor function differences between amateur athletes with and without a history of contact sport participation. A secondary aim of the study was to explore the association between neck reposition error and previously identified injury risk factors.Design: Cross-sectional.Participants: 27 amateur campus recreation sport athletes with a history of contact sport participation and 20 amateur campus recreation sport athletes with no history of contact sport.Main Outcome Measures: Baseline signs and symptoms (S/S) number and severity, Neck Disability Index, total neck reposition error, maximum reposition error, cervical range of motion, and cervical isometric strength were then compared between independent factor groups (contact vs. non-contact).Results: Amateur sport athletes with a history of contact sport exposure exhibited 25.2% more total neck reposition error and 24.6% more maximum neck reposition error than athletes with no history of contact sport participation. S/S number (r2 = .12, F(2,44) = 6.2, p = .017) and S/S severity (r2 = .14, F(2,44) = 5.6, p = .02) were significantly correlated with total neck reposition error.Conclusions: Athletes with a history of contact sport participation exhibited greater cervical spine reposition error. The degree to which these sensory position-sense deficits increase risk of injury and long-term quality of life is unknown, but should be explored in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Cheever
- Department of Kinesiology, College of Health, Community and Policy, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Jane McDevit
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - W Geoffrey Wright
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Neuromotor Science Program, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ryan Tierney
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Daly E, Pearce AJ, Ryan L. A Systematic Review of Strength and Conditioning Protocols for Improving Neck Strength and Reducing Concussion Incidence and Impact Injury Risk in Collision Sports; Is There Evidence? J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2021; 6:jfmk6010008. [PMID: 33462169 PMCID: PMC7838928 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk6010008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this systematic literature review was to evaluate the evidence regarding the development of neck strength in reducing concussion and cervical spine injuries in adult amateur and professional sport populations. PubMed, CINAHL, Science Direct, and Web of Science databases were searched systematically. The criteria for inclusion in the review were as follows: (1) a human adult (≥18 or above); (2) involved in amateur, semi-professional, or professional sports; (3) sports included involved collisions with other humans, apparatus or the environment; (4) interventions included pre- and post-neck muscle strength measures or neck stability measures; (5) outcomes included effects on increasing neck strength in participants and/or injury incidence. Database searches identified 2462 articles. Following title, abstract, and full paper screening, three papers were eligible for inclusion. All of the papers reported information from male participants, two were focused on rugby union, and one on American football. Two of the included studies found a significant improvement in isometric neck strength following intervention. None of the studies reported any impact of neck strengthening exercises on cervical spine injuries. This review has shown that there is currently a lack of evidence to support the use of neck strengthening interventions in reducing impact injury risk in adult populations who participate in sport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ed Daly
- School of Science and Computing, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT), H91 T8NW Galway, Ireland;
| | - Alan J. Pearce
- College of Science Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia;
| | - Lisa Ryan
- School of Science and Computing, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT), H91 T8NW Galway, Ireland;
- Correspondence:
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Barpujari A, Pierre K, Dodd W, Dagra A, Small C, Williams E, Clark A, Lucke-Wold B. Lessons from NATURE: methods for traumatic brain injury prevention. ARCHIVES OF CLINICAL TOXICOLOGY 2021; 3:34-41. [PMID: 34993525 PMCID: PMC8730289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Multiple species obtain repetitive head collisions throughout the course of their lifetimes with minimal neurologic deficit. Nature has allowed the unique development of multiple protective mechanisms to help prevent neurotrauma. In this review, we examine the concept of rapid brain movement within the skull 'Slosh' and what nature teaches on how to prevent this from occurring. We look at individual animals and the protective mechanisms at play. Marching from macroscopic down to the molecular level, we pinpoint key elements of neuroprotection that are likely contributing. We also introduce new concepts for neuroprotection and address avenues of further discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnav Barpujari
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Kevin Pierre
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - William Dodd
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Abeer Dagra
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Coulter Small
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Eric Williams
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Alec Clark
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
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Kerr ZY, Pierpoint LA, Rosene JM. Epidemiology of Concussions in High School Boys' Ice Hockey, 2008/09 to 2016/17 School Years. Clin J Sport Med 2021; 31:e21-e28. [PMID: 30451700 DOI: 10.1097/jsm.0000000000000697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined the epidemiology of concussions in high school boys' ice hockey during the 2008/09 to 2016/17 school years. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. Athletic trainers from an average 33 high schools annually reported boys' ice hockey concussion and athlete-exposure (AE) data for the High School Reporting Information Online system. SETTING Convenience sample of high school boys' ice hockey programs during the 2008/09 to 2016/17 school years. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS High school boys' ice hockey players (aged ∼14-18 years). INDEPENDENT VARIABLES Concussion data on event type, injury mechanism, symptom resolution time, and time loss were obtained. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Concussion rates with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and distributions were calculated. RESULTS Overall, 348 concussions were reported in boys' ice hockey during the 2008/09 to 2016/17 academic years, leading to a concussion rate of 0.68/1000 AEs (95% CI, 0.61-0.75). Most occurred in competitions (85.6%), particularly after the first period (72.1% of all competition concussions). Among practice concussions, most occurred after the first hour of practice (60.0%). Most concussions were due to player contact (47.7%) and boards/glass contact (31.9%). Although 69.0% of concussed athletes had symptoms resolve in less than 7 days, only 14.1% returned to activity within a week. CONCLUSIONS Most concussions occurred within the second and third periods. Preventive strategies that counter an increased risk of concussion due to a greater intensity of gameplay coupled with increased fatigue may be warranted. Moreover, athletes may further benefit from prevention efforts that focus on anticipating impacts during gameplay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Y Kerr
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Lauren A Pierpoint
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz, Aurora, Colorado; and
| | - John M Rosene
- Department of Exercise and Sport Performance, University of New England, Biddeford, Maine
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79
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare maximal cervical muscle strength among athletes with a history of 2 or more concussions relative to athletes with no history of a previous concussion. DESIGN Athletes in the 2 groups were frequency-matched. Linear mixed models were used to test for differences in peak isometric flexion, extension, left lateral flexion, and right lateral flexion cervical muscle torque between groups. SETTING Pediatric sports medicine clinic. PARTICIPANTS Athletes with a history of multiple concussions (n = 16) and athletes with no previous concussion history (n = 17). INTERVENTIONS (OR ASSESSMENT OF RISK FACTORS OR INDEPENDENT VARIABLES):: Concussion history (group), age, sex, neck girth, and height. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Peak isometric torque measured with a stationary isokinetic dynamometer during a 3-second isometric hold. RESULTS There was no significant difference in peak flexion [mean difference: 21.2%, 95% confidence interval (CI): -6.6% to 57.4%, P = 0.1413], extension (mean difference: 17%, 95% CI, -6.8% to 47.1%, P = 0.1667), left lateral (mean difference: 4.4%, 95% CI, -16.9% to 31.1%, P = 0.7011), or right lateral (mean difference: 9.3%, 95% CI, -14.5% to 39.8%, P = 0.4627) isometric torque in the concussion group relative to the control group. Across all muscle actions, neck torque was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in male compared with female athletes. Increasing neck girth was also associated with a significant (P < 0.05) increase in neck torque. CONCLUSIONS There was no evidence of a consistent cervical muscle strength deficit among athletes with a history of 2 or more concussions relative to athletes with no previous history of a concussion. Age, neck girth, and sex were significantly associated with cervical muscle strength. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Isometric cervical muscle strength testing may not be a reliable test for differentiating athletes with a history of multiple concussions relative to athletes with no history of concussions in the pediatric and adolescent population. Our study presents a reliable methodology for testing cervical muscle strength among young athletes.
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80
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Castellanos J, Phoo CP, Eckner JT, Franco L, Broglio SP, McCrea M, McAllister T, Wiens J. Predicting Risk of Sport-Related Concussion in Collegiate Athletes and Military Cadets: A Machine Learning Approach Using Baseline Data from the CARE Consortium Study. Sports Med 2020; 51:567-579. [PMID: 33368027 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-020-01390-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop a predictive model for sport-related concussion in collegiate athletes and military service academy cadets using baseline data collecting during the pre-participation examination. METHODS Baseline assessments were performed in 15,682 participants from 21 US academic institutions and military service academies participating in the CARE Consortium Study during the 2015-2016 academic year. Participants were monitored for sport-related concussion during the subsequent season. 176 baseline covariates mapped to 957 binary features were used as input into a support vector machine model with the goal of learning to stratify participants according to their risk for sport-related concussion. Performance was evaluated in terms of area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) on a held-out test set. Model inputs significantly associated with either increased or decreased risk were identified. RESULTS 595 participants (3.79%) sustained a concussion during the study period. The predictive model achieved an AUROC of 0.73 (95% confidence interval 0.70-0.76), with variable performance across sports. Features with significant positive and negative associations with subsequent sport-related concussion were identified. CONCLUSION(S) This predictive model using only baseline data identified athletes and cadets who would go on to sustain sport-related concussion with comparable accuracy to many existing concussion assessment tools for identifying concussion. Furthermore, this study provides insight into potential concussion risk and protective factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Castellanos
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, 325 E. Eisenhower Parkway, Ann Arbor, MI, 48108, USA.,Anestheshiology, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Cheng Perng Phoo
- Computer Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Computer Science, Cornell University, New York, USA
| | - James T Eckner
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, 325 E. Eisenhower Parkway, Ann Arbor, MI, 48108, USA.
| | - Lea Franco
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, 325 E. Eisenhower Parkway, Ann Arbor, MI, 48108, USA
| | | | - Mike McCrea
- Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | | | - Jenna Wiens
- Computer Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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81
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de Souza NL, Dennis EL, Brown AM, Singh S, Wilde EA, Buckman JF, Esopenko C. Relation between Isometric Neck Strength and White Matter Organization in Collegiate Athletes. Neurotrauma Rep 2020; 1:232-240. [PMID: 34223543 PMCID: PMC8240886 DOI: 10.1089/neur.2020.0025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Soccer athletes frequently experience repetitive head impacts (RHI) during games and practices, which may affect neural integrity over time and lead to altered brain structure. Neck strength is hypothesized to limit the transfer of force to the brain and decrease the effect of RHI on brain structure. The goal of our work was to examine whether greater neck strength is associated with more intact white matter organization (WMO) in collegiate athletes exposed to RHI. Collegiate soccer (n = 17) and limited/non-contact sport (n = 39) athletes were assessed prior to their athletic seasons. Participants completed neck strength assessments using handheld dynamometry in six test positions and diffusion tensor imaging. Fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), radial diffusivity (RD), and axial diffusivity (AD) were calculated for 20 white matter (WM) regions. A multi-variate approach was used to examine the relationship between neck strength and diffusion measures in soccer and limited/non-contact athletes. Neck strength was positively associated with FA and negatively associated with RD across several WM regions in soccer players only. Neck strength was not significantly associated with MD or AD in either group. Greater neck strength was related to more intact WMO in athletes with high exposure to RHI, particularly in regions prone to damage from brain trauma such as the basal ganglia, superior longitudinal fasciculus, and frontoparietal WM. Future studies should examine neck strength as a factor to moderate neural outcomes in athletes with exposure to RHI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola L de Souza
- School of Graduate Studies, Biomedical Sciences, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Emily L Dennis
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,George E. Wahlen Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Allison M Brown
- Department of Rehabilitation and Movement Sciences, School of Health Professions, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Sasha Singh
- Department of Rehabilitation and Movement Sciences, School of Health Professions, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Elisabeth A Wilde
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,George E. Wahlen Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Jennifer F Buckman
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Rutgers University - New Brunswick, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Carrie Esopenko
- Department of Rehabilitation and Movement Sciences, School of Health Professions, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey, USA
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82
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Shah BR, Holcomb JM, Davenport EM, Lack CM, McDaniel JM, Imphean DM, Xi Y, Rosenbaum DA, Urban JE, Wagner BC, Powers AK, Whitlow CT, Stitzel JD, Maldjian JA. Prevalence and Incidence of Microhemorrhages in Adolescent Football Players. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2020; 41:1263-1268. [PMID: 32661051 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a6618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE SWI is an advanced imaging modality that is especially useful in cerebral microhemorrhage detection. Such microhemorrhages have been identified in adult contact sport athletes, and the sequelae of these focal bleeds are thought to contribute to neurodegeneration. The purpose of this study was to utilize SWI to determine whether the prevalence and incidence of microhemorrhages in adolescent football players are significantly greater than those of adolescent noncontact athletes. MATERIALS AND METHODS Preseason and postseason SWI was performed and evaluated on 78 adolescent football players. SWI was also performed on 27 adolescent athletes who reported no contact sport history. Two separate one-tailed Fisher exact tests were performed to determine whether the prevalence and incidence of microhemorrhages in adolescent football players are greater than those of noncontact athlete controls. RESULTS Microhemorrhages were observed in 12 football players. No microhemorrhages were observed in any controls. Adolescent football players demonstrated a significantly greater prevalence of microhemorrhages than adolescent noncontact controls (P = .02). Although 2 football players developed new microhemorrhages during the season, microhemorrhage incidence during 1 football season was not statistically greater in the football population than in noncontact control athletes (P = .55). CONCLUSIONS Adolescent football players have a greater prevalence of microhemorrhages compared with adolescent athletes who have never engaged in contact sports. While microhemorrhage incidence during 1 season is not significantly greater in adolescent football players compared to adolescent controls, there is a temporal association between playing football and the appearance of new microhemorrhages.
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Affiliation(s)
- B R Shah
- From the Department of Radiology (B.R.S., J.M.H., E.M.D., J.M.M., D.M.I., Y.X., B.C.W., J.A.M.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - J M Holcomb
- From the Department of Radiology (B.R.S., J.M.H., E.M.D., J.M.M., D.M.I., Y.X., B.C.W., J.A.M.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - E M Davenport
- From the Department of Radiology (B.R.S., J.M.H., E.M.D., J.M.M., D.M.I., Y.X., B.C.W., J.A.M.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - C M Lack
- Departments of Radiology (C.M.L., C.T.W.)
| | - J M McDaniel
- From the Department of Radiology (B.R.S., J.M.H., E.M.D., J.M.M., D.M.I., Y.X., B.C.W., J.A.M.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - D M Imphean
- From the Department of Radiology (B.R.S., J.M.H., E.M.D., J.M.M., D.M.I., Y.X., B.C.W., J.A.M.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Y Xi
- From the Department of Radiology (B.R.S., J.M.H., E.M.D., J.M.M., D.M.I., Y.X., B.C.W., J.A.M.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | | | - J E Urban
- Biomedical Engineering (J.E.U., J.D.S.)
| | - B C Wagner
- From the Department of Radiology (B.R.S., J.M.H., E.M.D., J.M.M., D.M.I., Y.X., B.C.W., J.A.M.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - A K Powers
- Neurosurgery (A.K.P.), Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | | | | | - J A Maldjian
- From the Department of Radiology (B.R.S., J.M.H., E.M.D., J.M.M., D.M.I., Y.X., B.C.W., J.A.M.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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83
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Kriz PK, Roberts WO. Prevention of Sport-Related Concussion. Clin Sports Med 2020; 40:159-171. [PMID: 33187606 DOI: 10.1016/j.csm.2020.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Concussion remains a common injury among sports participants. Implementing risk-reduction strategies for sport-related concussion (SRC) should be a priority of medical professionals involved in the care of athletes. Over the past few decades, a multifaceted approach to reducing SRC risk has been developed. Protective equipment, rule and policy change/enforcement, educational programs, behavioral modifications, legislation, physiologic modifications, and sport culture change are a few of the programs implemented to mitigate SRC risk. In this article, the authors critically review current SRC risk-reduction strategies and offer insight into future directions of injury prevention for SRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Kriz
- Division of Sports Medicine, Department of Orthopedics, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital/Hasbro Children's Hospital, 1 Kettle Point Drive, Suite 300, East Providence, RI 02915, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital/Hasbro Children's Hospital, 1 Kettle Point Drive, Suite 300, East Providence, RI 02915, USA.
| | - William O Roberts
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota, 516 Delaware Street Southeast, 6-240 Phillips-Wangensteen Building, Minneapolis, MN 5545, USA. https://twitter.com/WilliamORoberts
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84
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Abstract
Female athletes are participating in collision sports in greater numbers than previously. The overall incidence of concussion is known to be higher in female athletes than in male athletes participating in similar sports. Evidence suggests anatomic, biomechanical, and biochemical etiologies behind this sex disparity. Future research on female athletes is needed for further guidance on prevention and management of concussion in girls and women.
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85
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Clearing the cobwebs: An analysis of the timing of youth concussion legislation in U.S. states. Soc Sci Med 2020; 265:113491. [PMID: 33162197 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
After decades of ignoring head injury in youth sports, U.S. states passed youth concussion legislation with stipulations about when athletes can return to play. Why were some states slower to pass laws than others? We consider this question through the lens of institutional medicalization, where medically informed policies are enacted. Our study recognizes the uneven nature of policy enactment across time and space with event history methods. We explore the influence of high school sport participation and other variables on the timing of legislation in all fifty states, 2007-2014. States with more high school football participation, as well as states with a strong college football presence, passed concussion laws later. Conversely, states with stronger orientations toward gender egalitarianism adopted laws sooner. These factors reflect sources of receptivity and resistance that underlie the process of institutional medicalization. Our approach offers one of the few quantitative studies of institutional medicalization and provides a template for future quantitative research in this area.
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86
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Wood TA, Sosnoff JJ. Age-related differences to neck range of motion and muscle strength: potential risk factors to fall-related traumatic brain injuries. Aging Clin Exp Res 2020; 32:2287-2295. [PMID: 31797323 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-019-01429-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fall-related traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a serious health concern for adults over the age of 75 years, yet there is limited knowledge on possible modifiable risk factors. The neck is responsible for supporting the head during falls and age-related differences to the neck muscular could provide modifiable risk factors. However, there is limited empirical data pertaining to age-related differences in neck range of motion (ROM) and muscle strength in adults over the age of 75 years. AIMS To understand the age-related differences in neck muscle ROM and strength, we quantified neck active and passive ROM and isometric strength in four directions in young (18-30 years), young-old (60-74 years) and old-old (75-89 years) groups. METHODS 57 participants were divided into groups based on age. Participants underwent testing of neck active and passive ROM and neck isometric strength in flexion, extension, and lateral flexion. RESULTS One-way ANOVAs revealed a significant effect of group on active and passive ROM in flexion, extension, and right and left lateral flexion (p < 0.001). Moreover, one-way ANOVAs revealed a significant group difference in only left lateral flexion strength (p < 0.030), yet there were large effect sizes observed between the young and old-old groups. DISCUSSION These findings suggest there are some age-related differences to the neck ROM and strength, which may be placing older adults at a greater risk for fall-related TBIs. CONCLUSION Future research should investigate the association between neck ROM and strength and head impact during falls in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler A Wood
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, Northern Illinois University, Dekalb, IL, 60115, USA
| | - Jacob J Sosnoff
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 906 S. Goodwin Ave, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
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87
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Stokes KA, Jones B, Bennett M, Close GL, Gill N, Hull JH, Kasper AM, Kemp SP, Mellalieu SD, Peirce N, Stewart B, Wall BT, West SW, Cross M. Returning to Play after Prolonged Training Restrictions in Professional Collision Sports. Int J Sports Med 2020; 41:895-911. [PMID: 32483768 PMCID: PMC7799169 DOI: 10.1055/a-1180-3692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 has resulted in widespread training disruption in many sports. Some athletes have access to facilities and equipment, while others have limited or no access, severely limiting their training practices. A primary concern is that the maintenance of key physical qualities (e. g. strength, power, high-speed running ability, acceleration, deceleration and change of direction), game-specific contact skills (e. g. tackling) and decision-making ability, are challenged, impacting performance and injury risk on resumption of training and competition. In extended periods of reduced training, without targeted intervention, changes in body composition and function can be profound. However, there are strategies that can dramatically mitigate potential losses, including resistance training to failure with lighter loads, plyometric training, exposure to high-speed running to ensure appropriate hamstring conditioning, and nutritional intervention. Athletes may require psychological support given the challenges associated with isolation and a change in regular training routine. While training restrictions may result in a decrease in some physical and psychological qualities, athletes can return in a positive state following an enforced period of rest and recovery. On return to training, the focus should be on progression of all aspects of training, taking into account the status of individual athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith A. Stokes
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Northern Ireland
- Medical Services, Rugby Football Union, Twickenham, United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Leeds Beckett University
Carnegie Faculty, Leeds, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern
Ireland
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, United Kingdom of Great Britain and
Northern Ireland
- England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League Ltd, Leeds, United Kingdom
of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
- Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, University of Cape Town,
Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mark Bennett
- Rugby Union of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation
- Applied Sport Technology Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM),
Swansea University College of Engineering, Swansea, United Kingdom of Great Britain
and Northern Ireland
| | - Graeme L. Close
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores
University, Liverpool, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern
Irelan
- Professional Rugby Department, Rugby Football Union, Twickenham, United
Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Nicholas Gill
- New Zealand Rugby Union, Wellington, New Zealand
- Te HuatakiWaiora School of Health, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New
Zealand
| | - James H. Hull
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton Hospital, London, United
Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Andreas M. Kasper
- Professional Rugby Department, Rugby Football Union, Twickenham, United
Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Simon P.T. Kemp
- Medical Services, Rugby Football Union, Twickenham, United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Stephen D. Mellalieu
- Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan
University, Cardiff, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern
Ireland
| | - Nicholas Peirce
- Sport Science & Medicine, England and Wales Cricket Board,
Loughborough, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Bob Stewart
- Medical Services, Rugby Football Union, Twickenham, United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Benjamin T. Wall
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, United
Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Stephen W. West
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Matthew Cross
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Northern Ireland
- Professional Rugby Department, Rugby Football Union, Twickenham, United
Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
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88
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Zutrauen S, McFaull S, Do MT. Soccer-related head injuries-analysis of sentinel surveillance data collected by the electronic Canadian Hospitals Injury Reporting and Prevention Program. Paediatr Child Health 2020; 25:378-384. [PMID: 32963651 DOI: 10.1093/pch/pxz116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Participating in sports is a great way to gain physical, psychological, and social benefits. However, it also carries the risk of injury. Soccer is one of the most popular sports worldwide, and in recent years, there have been concerns about potential vulnerabilities to head injuries. Objectives To investigate soccer-related head injuries (SRHIs), using data from the electronic Canadian Hospitals Injury Reporting and Prevention Program (eCHIRPP) surveillance system. Specifically, we aim to compare characteristics of SRHI cases to all head injury cases within the eCHIRPP database. Methods Descriptive analyses of emergency department (ED) injury surveillance data (2011 to 2017) for individuals aged 5 to 29 years from all participating eCHIRPP sites. Computation of proportionate injury ratios (PIR) comparing SRHIs to all head injuries reported to eCHIRPP, and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results A total of 3,970 SRHIs were reported to eCHIRPP. Injuries were from contact with another player, the ball, ground, goal-post, and other causes. Of the injuries caused by contact with the ball, 9% were from purposely directing the ball with the head (heading). A higher proportion of concussions (PIR=1.32, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.27 to 1.37) and minor closed head injuries (PIR=1.20, 95% CI: 1.15 to 1.26) were observed in soccer players. Higher proportions of head injuries occurred in organized soccer and soccer played outdoors. However, admission to the ED for a SRHI was rare (PIR=0.40, 95% CI: 0.30 to 0.55). Conclusions Overall, elevated proportions of brain injuries were observed among soccer players, however, these injuries were unlikely to result in a hospital admission. Moreover, purposely heading the ball contributed to few ED visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Zutrauen
- Department of Health Sciences, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario.,Centre for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario
| | - Steven McFaull
- Centre for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario
| | - Minh T Do
- Department of Health Sciences, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario.,Centre for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
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89
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Reynier KA, Alshareef A, Sanchez EJ, Shedd DF, Walton SR, Erdman NK, Newman BT, Giudice JS, Higgins MJ, Funk JR, Broshek DK, Druzgal TJ, Resch JE, Panzer MB. The Effect of Muscle Activation on Head Kinematics During Non-injurious Head Impacts in Human Subjects. Ann Biomed Eng 2020; 48:2751-2762. [PMID: 32929556 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-020-02609-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In this study, twenty volunteers were subjected to three, non-injurious lateral head impacts delivered by a 3.7 kg padded impactor at 2 m/s at varying levels of muscle activation (passive, co-contraction, and unilateral contraction). Electromyography was used to quantify muscle activation conditions, and resulting head kinematics were recorded using a custom-fit instrumented mouthpiece. A multi-modal battery of diagnostic tests (evaluated using neurocognitive, balance, symptomatic, and neuroimaging based assessments) was performed on each subject pre- and post-impact. The passive muscle condition resulted in the largest resultant head linear acceleration (12.1 ± 1.8 g) and angular velocity (7.3 ± 0.5 rad/s). Compared to the passive activation, increasing muscle activation decreased both peak resultant linear acceleration and angular velocity in the co-contracted (12.1 ± 1.5 g, 6.8 ± 0.7 rad/s) case and significantly decreased in the unilateral contraction (10.7 ± 1.7 g, 6.5 ± 0.7 rad/s) case. The duration of angular velocity was decreased with an increase in neck muscle activation. No diagnostic metric showed a statistically or clinically significant alteration between baseline and post-impact assessments, confirming these impacts were non-injurious. This study demonstrated that isometric neck muscle activation prior to impact can reduce resulting head kinematics. This study also provides the data necessary to validate computational models of head impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen A Reynier
- Center for Applied Biomechanics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Ahmed Alshareef
- Center for Applied Biomechanics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | | | - Daniel F Shedd
- Center for Applied Biomechanics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Samuel R Walton
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Nicholas K Erdman
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Benjamin T Newman
- Department of Radiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - J Sebastian Giudice
- Center for Applied Biomechanics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Michael J Higgins
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | | | - Donna K Broshek
- Neurocognitive Assessment Lab, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Thomas J Druzgal
- Department of Radiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Jacob E Resch
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Matthew B Panzer
- Center for Applied Biomechanics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
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90
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Ledreux A, Pryhoda MK, Gorgens K, Shelburne K, Gilmore A, Linseman DA, Fleming H, Koza LA, Campbell J, Wolff A, Kelly JP, Margittai M, Davidson BS, Granholm AC. Assessment of Long-Term Effects of Sports-Related Concussions: Biological Mechanisms and Exosomal Biomarkers. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:761. [PMID: 32848549 PMCID: PMC7406890 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) in athletes can cause persistent symptoms, known as post-concussion syndrome (PCS), and repeated injuries may increase the long-term risk for an athlete to develop neurodegenerative diseases such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), and Alzheimer's disease (AD). The Center for Disease Control estimates that up to 3.8 million sport-related mTBI are reported each year in the United States. Despite the magnitude of the phenomenon, there is a current lack of comprehensive prognostic indicators and research has shown that available monitoring tools are moderately sensitive to short-term concussion effects but less sensitive to long-term consequences. The overall aim of this review is to discuss novel, quantitative, and objective measurements that can predict long-term outcomes following repeated sports-related mTBIs. The specific objectives were (1) to provide an overview of the current clinical and biomechanical tools available to health practitioners to ensure recovery after mTBIs, (2) to synthesize potential biological mechanisms in animal models underlying the long-term adverse consequences of mTBIs, (3) to discuss the possible link between repeated mTBI and neurodegenerative diseases, and (4) to discuss the current knowledge about fluid biomarkers for mTBIs with a focus on novel exosomal biomarkers. The conclusions from this review are that current post-concussion clinical tests are not sufficiently sensitive to injury and do not accurately quantify post-concussion alterations associated with repeated mTBIs. In the current review, it is proposed that current practices should be amended to include a repeated symptom inventory, a cognitive assessment of executive function and impulse control, an instrumented assessment of balance, vestibulo-ocular assessments, and an improved panel of blood or exosome biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Ledreux
- Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Moira K. Pryhoda
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Kim Gorgens
- Graduate School of Professional Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Kevin Shelburne
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Anah Gilmore
- Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Daniel A. Linseman
- Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
- Biological Sciences, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Holly Fleming
- Biological Sciences, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Lilia A. Koza
- Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
- Biological Sciences, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Julie Campbell
- Pioneer Health and Performance, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Adam Wolff
- Denver Neurological Clinic, Denver, CO, United States
| | - James P. Kelly
- Marcus Institute for Brain Health, Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Martin Margittai
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Bradley S. Davidson
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
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91
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Bigger Necks Are Not Enough: An Examination of Neck Circumference in Incoming College Athletes. J Prim Prev 2020; 41:421-429. [PMID: 32681415 DOI: 10.1007/s10935-020-00600-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Neck circumference is quick and simple to measure and thus an attractive proxy of neck strength, a putative mechanism underlying risk of sport-related concussion (SRC). Research, however, is limited on the relationship of neck circumference to SRC. Our study examined differences in neck circumference based on sex, concussion history, concussions experienced subsequent to college entry, and participation in sports with high versus low risk for contact. Neck circumference was measured in incoming NCAA Division I athletes (N = 324) from a large northeastern university during athlete pre-participation physicals. Sex, sport team, and self-reported concussion history were obtained from retrospective pre-participation questionnaires and medical chart review. Concussion diagnoses during college were collected subsequent to neck measurements from medical chart review. Proportional neck circumference (normalized by body mass index) was computed. Each sport was categorized as involving high or low risk of contact (as a proxy of risk for injury). Sex differences in neck circumference and proportional neck circumference were assessed. Differences in neck circumference and proportional neck circumference were also characterized by contact risk and SRC history (with biological sex included as a covariate). Differences in neck circumference and proportional neck circumference were explored among those who did versus did not experience subsequent SRC diagnosis. Males had significantly larger neck circumference and proportional neck circumference than females. Neck circumference and proportional neck circumference were not related to SRC history or subsequent SRC. Neck circumference is a quick and simple measure; however, even when considered in proportion to body mass, it was unrelated to SRC. Future studies are needed to assess whether this is due to a lack of relationship between the neck and injury or limitations in circumference as a proxy measure of cervical spine characteristics and biomechanics.
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92
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Women Are at Higher Risk for Concussions Due to Ball or Equipment Contact in Soccer and Lacrosse. Clin Orthop Relat Res 2020; 478:1469-1479. [PMID: 31651591 PMCID: PMC7310326 DOI: 10.1097/corr.0000000000000995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is ample evidence to suggest sex- and gender-based differences in the incidence of sports-related concussions. The mechanisms of concussion may vary between male and female athletes and contribute to this observed difference. Understanding the underlying etiology by pooling data from primary studies across different settings and sport types will inform interventions that can reduce concussion rates. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES Specifically, we asked: (1) In which sports are female athletes less likely to experience concussions from player contact? (2) In which sports are female athletes more likely to experience concussions because of ball or equipment contact? METHODS PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched to identify articles published from January 2000 to December 2018. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria, which were studies that reported concussion incidence by mechanism for both male and female athletes. Exclusion criteria included non-English studies, conference abstracts, and studies on non-sports related concussions. The sports represented by the 10 studies included ice hockey (n = 4), soccer (n = 5), basketball (n = 4), baseball/softball (n = 4), and lacrosse (n = 5). The rate ratio was calculated as the incidence rate in female athletes/male athletes for each concussion mechanism or activity. Data were pooled using the DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model. Study quality was assessed with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RESULTS Female athletes were at lower risk of player-contact-induced concussions in lacrosse (pooled rate ratio 0.33 [95% CI 0.25 to 0.43]; p < 0.001), basketball (pooled rate ratio 0.86 [95% CI 0.76 to 0.97]; p = 0.01), ice hockey (pooled rate ratio 0.64 [95% CI 0.56 to 0.73]; p < 0.001), soccer (pooled rate ratio 0.70 [95% CI 0.66 to 0.75]; p < 0.001), and soccer heading (pooled rate ratio 0.80 [95% CI 0.72 to 0.90]; p < 0.001); in these sports, men were at higher risk of concussions from player contact. Female athletes were more likely to experience concussions because of ball or equipment contact in lacrosse (pooled rate ratio 3.24 [95% CI 2.10 to 4.99]; p < 0.001), soccer (pooled rate ratio 2.04 [95% CI 1.67 to 2.49]; p < 0.001), and soccer heading (pooled rate ratio 2.63 [95% CI 1.84 to 3.77]; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The mechanism or activity underlying concussions differs between male and female athletes across different sports. This finding remains the same regardless of whether there are rule differences between the men's and women's games. The implementation of other interventions are required to further ensure player safety, including protective head equipment, concussion prevention training, or rules limiting player contact in the men's game. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III, retrospective study.
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93
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Provance AJ, Howell DR, Potter MN, Wilson PE, D'Lauro AM, Wilson JC. Presence of Neck or Shoulder Pain Following Sport-Related Concussion Negatively Influences Recovery. J Child Neurol 2020; 35:456-462. [PMID: 32192408 DOI: 10.1177/0883073820909046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Our objective was to examine the effect of current neck or shoulder pain on concussion outcomes. Variables included symptom resolution and return-to-sport time, symptom severity, amount of school missed, and sleep disturbances. Three hundred twelve patients (37% female; median age = 15.0 years; evaluated median = 9 days postinjury) reported experiencing current neck or shoulder pain at initial evaluation, and 268 did not (31% female; median age = 14.7 years; evaluated median = 8 days postinjury). Neck or shoulder pain was associated with longer symptom resolution time (β = 6.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.44, 10.31; P = .002), more severe symptoms (β = 7.06, 95% CI = 4.91, 9.21; P < .001), and greater odds of missing >5 days of school (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.89, 95% CI = 1.23, 2.93; P = .004), and postinjury sleep problems (aOR = 2.20, 95% CI = 1.51, 3.21; P < .001). Experiencing neck or shoulder pain during the initial postinjury clinical evaluation was associated with worsened clinical outcomes. Clinicians may consider referral to early rehabilitation following concussion among those who report neck or shoulder pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron J Provance
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.,Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - David R Howell
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.,Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Morgan N Potter
- School of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Pamela E Wilson
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Allison M D'Lauro
- Department of Physical Therapy, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Julie C Wilson
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.,Sports Medicine Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
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94
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Li W, Chang C, Liang S, Bigler ED. Radiographic and neurobehavioral profile of sports-related concussion associated with scholastic wrestling: a case report. Neurocase 2020; 26:147-155. [PMID: 32412324 DOI: 10.1080/13554794.2020.1764977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Sports-related concussions (SRCs) are typically characterized by transient neurologic deficits due to physiologic and metabolic brain injury. However, following an SRC, subsequent insults may lead to severe and permanent injury in the affected brain cells. We present the case of a 15-year-old female scholastic wrestler who developed acute encephalopathy, macroscopic white matter injury on imaging, and chronic behavioral changes from inadequate neuro-recovery after a documented SRC. We also compare her case with established SRC data, demonstrating that wrestling-related concussions and repetitive head impacts can produce similar degrees of diffuse neuroinflammation, myelinated axonopathy, blood-brain barrier disruption, and post-concussive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wentao Li
- Department of Neurology, University of California Davis , Sacramento, USA
| | - Celia Chang
- Department of Neurology, Division of Pediatric Neurology, University of California Davis , Sacramento, USA
| | - Shannon Liang
- Department of Neurology, Division of Pediatric Neurology, University of California Davis , Sacramento, USA
| | - Erin D Bigler
- Department of Neurology, University of California Davis , Sacramento, USA.,Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Research Facility, Brigham Young University , Provo, USA.,Department of Neurology and Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah , Salt Lake City, USA
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95
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Anderson ED, Giudice JS, Wu T, Panzer MB, Meaney DF. Predicting Concussion Outcome by Integrating Finite Element Modeling and Network Analysis. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:309. [PMID: 32351948 PMCID: PMC7174699 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Concussion is a significant public health problem affecting 1.6-2.4 million Americans annually. An alternative to reducing the burden of concussion is to reduce its incidence with improved protective equipment and injury mitigation systems. Finite element (FE) models of the brain response to blunt trauma are often used to estimate injury potential and can lead to improved helmet designs. However, these models have yet to incorporate how the patterns of brain connectivity disruption after impact affects the relay of information in the injured brain. Furthermore, FE brain models typically do not consider the differences in individual brain structural connectivities and their purported role in concussion risk. Here, we use graph theory techniques to integrate brain deformations predicted from FE modeling with measurements of network efficiency to identify brain regions whose connectivity characteristics may influence concussion risk. We computed maximum principal strain in 129 brain regions using head kinematics measured from 53 professional football impact reconstructions that included concussive and non-concussive cases. In parallel, using diffusion spectrum imaging data from 30 healthy subjects, we simulated structural lesioning of each of the same 129 brain regions. We simulated lesioning by removing each region one at a time along with all its connections. In turn, we computed the resultant change in global efficiency to identify regions important for network communication. We found that brain regions that deformed the most during an impact did not overlap with regions most important for network communication (Pearson's correlation, ρ = 0.07; p = 0.45). Despite this dissimilarity, we found that predicting concussion incidence was equally accurate when considering either areas of high strain or of high importance to global efficiency. Interestingly, accuracy for concussion prediction varied considerably across the 30 healthy connectomes. These results suggest that individual network structure is an important confounding variable in concussion prediction and that further investigation of its role may improve concussion prediction and lead to the development of more effective protective equipment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin D. Anderson
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - J. Sebastian Giudice
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Taotao Wu
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Matthew B. Panzer
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - David F. Meaney
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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96
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A Novel Testing Device to Assess the Effect of Neck Strength on Risk of Concussion. Ann Biomed Eng 2020; 48:2310-2322. [PMID: 32253614 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-020-02504-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Concussion awareness has become more prevalent in the past decade, leading to growing calls for prevention programs such as neck strengthening. However, previous research work has shown that not all training programs have been effective, and there is a need for a reliable testing device to measure cervical strength dynamically before and after training. Therefore, this work proposes a novel Concussion Active Prevention Testing Device composed of inertial measurement units mounted on the head and a custom-designed frame to measure head kinematics during controlled sub-concussive impacts. Through an experimental study with able-bodied participants, the proposed testing device demonstrated high intra-participant repeatability between waveforms of the head acceleration and angular velocity in the sagittal plane (multiple correlation coefficient of 80%). Similarly, good and excellent intra-class correlation coefficients were obtained for head injury metrics, including range, peak, Gadd severity index, head injury criterion, and range of motion. Finally, the results showed that significantly higher head injury metrics were measured for female participants, which was in line with the findings of previous research works. We conclude that the proposed testing device can be used to measure repeatable and informative metrics for evaluating the effectiveness of athletes' neck strengthening program.
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97
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Jeffries KK, Girouard TJ, Tandy RD, Radzak KN. Concussion-Prevention Strategies Used in National Collegiate Athletic Association Divisions I and II Women's Soccer. J Athl Train 2020; 55:469-474. [PMID: 32216659 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-142-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Whereas much attention has been paid to identifying mechanisms for decreasing concussion rates in women's soccer players, which strategies are currently being used is unknown. In addition, athletic trainers' (ATs') knowledge and beliefs about the efficacy of concussion-prevention practices have not been studied. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the concussion-prevention strategies being used in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I and Division II women's soccer and identify the beliefs of certified ATs regarding mechanisms for preventing concussion. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Online survey. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS A total of 223 women's soccer team ATs employed at Division I or II universities. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) A survey instrument of structured questions and open-ended, follow-up questions was developed to identify the use of cervical-strengthening programs, headgear, and other techniques for preventing concussion. Questions also addressed ATs' beliefs regarding the effectiveness of cervical strengthening, headgear, and mouthguards in concussion prevention. Data were collected via questionnaire in Qualtrics survey software. Descriptive statistics of frequencies and percentages were calculated for close-ended questions. Open-ended questions were evaluated for common themes, which were then reported by response frequency. RESULTS Cervical strengthening or stability for concussion prevention was reported by 38 (17.12%) respondents; 153 (69.86%) ATs believed that cervical strengthening would aid in concussion prevention. Seventy-eight (35.49%) reported that their players wore headgear. Nineteen (8.76%) believed that soccer headgear prevented concussions; 45 (20.74%) believed that mouthguards prevented concussions. Education in proper soccer technique was reported by 151 (69.59%) respondents. Fourteen (0.06%) respondents cited nutritional strategies for concussion prevention. CONCLUSIONS Although ATs believed that cervical strengthening could help prevent concussions, few had implemented this strategy. However, the ATs whose teams used headgear outnumbered those who believed that headgear was an effective prevention strategy. Based on our findings, we saw a disconnect among the current use of concussion-prevention strategies, ATs' beliefs, and the available evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kori K Jeffries
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas.,Ms Jeffries is now with Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute of Las Vegas, NV
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98
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Till K, Weakley J, Read DB, Phibbs P, Darrall-Jones J, Roe G, Chantler S, Mellalieu S, Hislop M, Stokes K, Rock A, Jones B. Applied Sport Science for Male Age-Grade Rugby Union in England. SPORTS MEDICINE-OPEN 2020; 6:14. [PMID: 32086645 PMCID: PMC7035403 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-020-0236-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Rugby union (RU) is a skill-collision team sport played at junior and senior levels worldwide. Within England, age-grade rugby governs the participation and talent development of youth players. The RU player development pathway has recently been questioned, regarding player performance and well-being, which sport science research can address. The purpose of this review was to summarise and critically appraise the literature in relation to the applied sport science of male age-grade RU players in England focussing upon (1) match-play characteristics, (2) training exposures, (3) physical qualities, (4) fatigue and recovery, (5) nutrition, (6) psychological challenges and development, and (7) injury. Current research evidence suggests that age, playing level and position influence the match-play characteristics of age-grade RU. Training exposures of players are described as 'organised chaos' due to the multiple environments and stakeholders involved in coordinating training schedules. Fatigue is apparent up to 72 h post match-play. Well-developed physical qualities are important for player development and injury risk reduction. The nutritional requirements are high due to the energetic costs of collisions. Concerns around the psychological characteristics have also been identified (e.g. perfectionism). Injury risk is an important consideration with prevention strategies available. This review highlights the important multi-disciplinary aspects of sport science for developing age-grade RU players for continued participation and player development. The review describes where some current practices may not be optimal, provides a framework to assist practitioners to effectively prepare age-grade players for the holistic demands of youth RU and considers areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Till
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK. .,Leeds Rhinos RLFC, Leeds, UK. .,Yorkshire Carnegie RUFC, Leeds, UK.
| | - Jonathon Weakley
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Dale B Read
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Padraic Phibbs
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,Leinster Rugby, Belfield, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
| | - Josh Darrall-Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,Bath RUFC, Bath, UK
| | - Greg Roe
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,Bath RUFC, Bath, UK
| | - Sarah Chantler
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,Yorkshire Carnegie RUFC, Leeds, UK
| | | | | | - Keith Stokes
- University of Bath, Bath, UK.,Rugby Football Union, London, UK
| | | | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,Leeds Rhinos RLFC, Leeds, UK.,Yorkshire Carnegie RUFC, Leeds, UK.,England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Red Hall, Leeds, UK.,School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia.,Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Cape Town and the Sports Science Institute of South Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
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99
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A Look Ahead. Concussion 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-65384-8.00015-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2023] Open
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100
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Abstract
A systematic approach is required for patients with a suspected concussion. Although standardized tools can aid in assessment, the diagnosis of concussion remains a clinical one. At the time of diagnosis, patients should be given both verbal and written review of the common symptoms of concussion, expected course of recovery, as well as strategies to manage symptoms. Most patients benefit from a brief period of rest, followed by a gradual reintroduction of activities, and a graduated return-to-sport protocol. Patients with prolonged recovery from a concussion may benefit from exercise, vestibular, and cognitive rehabilitation programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Robert Misch
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Neha P Raukar
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street, Southwest, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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