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Vigh-Larsen JF, Junge N, Cialdella-Kam L, Tomás R, Young L, Krustrup P, Mohr M, Nybo L. Testing in Intermittent Sports-Importance for Training and Performance Optimization in Adult Athletes. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2024; 56:1505-1537. [PMID: 39004796 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000003442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Performance in intermittent sports relies on the interplay between multiple physiological systems determining the capacity to perform short explosive efforts as well as repeated intense actions with limited recovery over the course of an entire game. Testing should reflect these demands to allow for sport- and position-specific capacity analyses that eventually may translate into optimized training and improved performance. This may include individual load management and optimized training prescription, intensity targeting for specific positions or individual athletes, as well as benchmarking for monitoring of training progression and enhanced engagement of athletes. This review provides an overview of available tests in different exercise domains identified as relevant (from assessment of single explosive actions to intermittent endurance capacity), forming the basis for recommendations on how to compose a comprehensive yet feasible test battery that may be integrated into the seasonal competition and training plan. The test procedures should cover the performance spectrum of relevance for the individual athlete-also in team sports to account for positional differences. We emphasize the benefits of sport-specific tests, highlight parameters of importance for test standardization, and discuss how the applied test battery may be supplemented with secondary tests directed toward specific energy systems to allow for more in-depth analyses when required (e.g., in terms of an underperforming athlete). The synergy between testing and tracking of match performance (utilizing time-motion or global positioning systems) is highlighted, and although tracking cannot substitute for testing, combining the tools may provide a comprehensive overview of the physiological demands and performance during competition contextualized to the athletes' maximal exercise capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicklas Junge
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sport Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DENMARK
| | - Lynn Cialdella-Kam
- Warfighter Performance Department, Naval Health Research Center, San Diego, CA
| | - Rita Tomás
- Portugal Football School, Federação Portuguesa de Futebol Avenida das Seleções, Oeiras, PORTUGAL
| | - Laura Young
- American College of Sports Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | | | | | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sport Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DENMARK
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Klein J, Koch I, Delgadillo BE, Chickness J, Blank J, Amos A, Tay K, Kelly EA, Webber K, Benzinger B, Haft J, Miller D. Concussion Reduction in Division I and II Athletes: Effects of Simple Cervical Spine Exercise Regimen. Cureus 2024; 16:e66058. [PMID: 39229396 PMCID: PMC11370701 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.66058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary preventative medicine lacks a consensus on effective concussion prevention strategies for collegiate athletes. Cervical strength has been identified as a potential factor in concussion risk reduction. This study evaluates the impact of a commercially available, portable cervical muscle stretching and strengthening device, NeckX®, on cervical strength, range of motion (ROM), and concussion incidence in collegiate athletes participating in high-concussion-risk sports. METHODS A single-arm prospective cohort study was conducted with 162 collegiate athletes from various sports. Participants underwent a 12-week neck exercise protocol using the NeckX® device. Clinical data, including neck strength and ROM, were collected at weeks 0, 6, and 12. Concussion incidence was self-reported by participants and cross-referenced with records from the athletic department. Data were analyzed for significant neck strength and ROM changes throughout the 12-week study. A two-way analysis of variance multiple comparisons with the Tukey-Kramer significant difference test was utilized, using the Holm-Sidak method, with an alpha of 0.05. RESULTS All athletic teams experienced a significant increase in cervical strength during the 12-week intervention (α = 0.05, p < 0.05). Increases in cervical flexion and extension force were most consistent between teams. Cervical ROM increased significantly in male and female soccer players (α = 0.05, p < 0.05). The overall incidence of head and neck injuries, including concussions, was reduced to 6.60% during the study period, the lowest recorded value in the university's athletic department history. CONCLUSION The use of the NeckX® device for 12 weeks was effective in enhancing pericervical muscle strength and ROM while reducing concussion incidence in collegiate athletes participating in high-concussion-risk sports. Interestingly, the positive outcomes were consistent for both males and females, indicating the universal advantages of neck training among collegiate athletes. These findings support existing research on the benefits of cervical strengthening exercises for reducing concussions in collegiate athletes and highlight the convenience and affordability of using this device.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Klein
- Physiatry, Rochester Regional Health, Rochester, USA
| | - Ian Koch
- Orthopedic Surgery, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie, USA
| | - Blake E Delgadillo
- Orthopedic Surgery, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, USA
| | - Jason Chickness
- Orthopedic Surgery, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie, USA
| | - Jacob Blank
- Orthopedic Surgery, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie, USA
| | - Ashton Amos
- General Surgery, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie, USA
| | - Kevin Tay
- Orthopedic Surgery, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie, USA
| | - Emily A Kelly
- Orthopedic Surgery, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie, USA
| | - Kassidy Webber
- Orthopedic Surgery, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, USA
| | - Brett Benzinger
- Orthopedic Surgery, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie, USA
| | - Jeffrey Haft
- Athletic Training, Mercyhurst University, Erie, USA
| | - Drew Miller
- Orthopedic Surgery, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie, USA
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Worrall H, Podvin C, Althoff C, Chung JS, Sugimoto D, Stokes M, Radel LC, Cullum CM, Miller SM, Jones JC. Position comparison of sport-related concussions in female youth soccer players. PHYSICIAN SPORTSMED 2024; 52:325-332. [PMID: 37564006 DOI: 10.1080/00913847.2023.2246869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Youth soccer participation, particularly among females, continues to grow worldwide. With the high incidence of sport-related concussion (SRC) in soccer, it is important to investigate if SRC occurs disproportionally by positions. Our hypothesis was to see no positional differences in SRCs, SRC-related characteristics, and outcomes among in female youth soccer athletes. METHODS Data were prospectively collected from participants at a single sports medicine institution between August 2015-April 2021. Female participants aged 8-18 diagnosed with SRC sustained during an organized soccer practice, scrimmage, or game were separated into 4 groups based on position: Forward, Midfielder, Defender, and Goalkeeper. Demographics, medical history, injury-related details, and outcomes were reviewed. A chi-square test or Fisher's exact test was used for categorical variables. Continuous variables were compared with Mann-Whitney or Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS Two hundred fourteen participants were included: 52 Forwards, 65 Midfielders, 63 Defenders, and 34 Goalkeepers. There were no significant differences between the groups in age, race, ethnicity, or previous concussion history. Differences in mechanism existed with Goalkeepers most commonly reporting Head to Body Part. Goalkeepers, which make up 1/11 of the total positions on the field, had a significantly higher proportion of SRCs compared to Field Positions. (9.1% vs 15.9%)At 3-month post-enrollment, there were no significant differences in reported symptoms or return-to-play between the different positions. CONCLUSION In youth female soccer players, goalkeepers sustained a higher proportion of sport-related concussions compared to field players based upon the composition of a soccer team. The mechanism of injury also differed among the different soccer positions. However, no differences in concussion characteristics, outcomes, or RTP were seen across the different soccer positions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Worrall
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Scottish Rite for Children, Frisco, TX, USA
| | - Caroline Podvin
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Scottish Rite for Children, Frisco, TX, USA
| | - Claire Althoff
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Scottish Rite for Children, Frisco, TX, USA
| | - Jane S Chung
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Scottish Rite for Children, Frisco, TX, USA
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | | | - Mathew Stokes
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Scottish Rite for Children, Frisco, TX, USA
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Luke C Radel
- Department of Pediatrics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Shane M Miller
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Scottish Rite for Children, Frisco, TX, USA
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Jacob C Jones
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Scottish Rite for Children, Frisco, TX, USA
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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Schroeder LH, McDaniel AT, Wang Y, Dickens GM, Pantani V, Kubinak H. Evaluating Neck-Strengthening Protocols to Reduce the Incidence of Traumatic Brain Injury: Traditional vs. Nontraditional Neck-Strengthening Techniques. J Strength Cond Res 2024; 38:1266-1274. [PMID: 38090814 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Schroeder, LH, McDaniel, AT, Wang, Y, Dickens, GM, Pantani, V, and Kubinak, H. Evaluating neck-strengthening protocols to reduce the incidence of traumatic brain injury: traditional vs. nontraditional neck-strengthening techniques. J Strength Cond Res 38(7): 1266-1274, 2024-A common cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) is the head's kinematic response to rapid movement, which can be reduced with dynamic neck strengthening. This study aimed to determine the most effective neck-strengthening program by comparing a traditional and nontraditional program. Isometric neck strength was assessed in 32 subjects randomly assigned to one of the traditional and nontraditional neck-strengthening programs. The nontraditional program used a novel neck-strengthening device. After weeks 6 and 10 of training, isometric neck strength was reassessed. With the collected data, linear mixed models were established to compare the changes in neck strength between the 2 groups during the 10-week training period. Statistical analysis results suggest that, for both cervical extension (CE) and cervical flexion (CF), subjects in the novel neck-strengthening device group had a significantly higher gain of strength during the 10 weeks than the traditional group. With test statistics of -2.691 and -3.203 and corresponding 2-sided p -value of 0.01289 and 0.003889, respectively, we conclude that there is a statistically significant difference in the linear slopes of increase for both CE and CF between the 2 groups. As to left cervical lateral flexion and right cervical lateral flexion, the novel neck strength group had increased strength gains compared with the traditional group. However, the increase was not enough to demonstrate significant findings. Results were considered significant at p < 0.05. The results of this study show that the novel neck-strengthening device may be an effective mechanism for preventing mild TBIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey H Schroeder
- Athletic Training Program Faculty, School of Health and Applied Human Sciences, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, North Carolina
| | - Alexander T McDaniel
- Exercise Science Program Faculty, School of Health and Applied Human Sciences, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, North Carolina
| | - Yishi Wang
- Statistics Program Faculty, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, North Carolina
| | - Gabe M Dickens
- Exercise Science Program Honors Student, School of Health and Applied Human Sciences, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, North Carolina; and
| | - Valentina Pantani
- Athletic Training Program Honors Student, School of Health and Applied Human Sciences, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, North Carolina
| | - Haley Kubinak
- Exercise Science Program Honors Student, School of Health and Applied Human Sciences, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, North Carolina; and
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Garnett D, Cobbing S, Viljoen C, Patricios J. High school rugby coaches' knowledge and opinions of concussion in Kwa-Zulu Natal province in South Africa: an ecological cross-sectional study. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2024; 16:139. [PMID: 38915113 PMCID: PMC11194973 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-024-00930-5] [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: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Concussions in Rugby Union are common with an increased risk to adolescent players. Coaches are key to injury prevention and a greater understanding of their knowledge and sentiments may guide future initiatives. There is a lack of data on rugby coaches, especially in South Africa. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge and opinions of high school rugby coaches regarding concussion management. METHODS This cross-sectional study of 37 high school rugby coaches in South Africa, was conducted via a self-reported questionnaire. Concussion knowledge was scored for correct answers only with closed-question scaling methods to measure the importance of items of concussion management using a graphical rating scale. An attitude scale (Likert) was used to assess self-reported opinions and behaviours. Associations were calculated for participant characteristics and overall concussion injury knowledge. RESULTS More participants showed good overall knowledge of ≥ 75% (n = 22, 59% vs. n = 15, 40%), especially those with greater coaching experience (p = 0.021). Player welfare was perceived more important than player performance (185 vs. 164), with concussion prevention most important (184 of 185). Appealing characteristics of an injury prevention programme were the improvement of player skill (173, SD ± 0.75, mean 4.68), being adaptable (171, ± 0.86, 4.62), and being completed in the warm-up (167, ± 0.93, 4.51). The biggest perceived barriers were duration (138, ± 1.59, mean 3.73), effort (130, ± 1.56, 3.51), compliance and lack of knowledge (both 127, ± 1.68, 3.43). CONCLUSION These results support the implementation of ongoing concussion education for rugby coaches and identify areas for promoting awareness and knowledge of concussion injury prevention, identification, and specific management of younger athletes. Appealing characteristics and barriers are highlighted and may allow for improved implementation and adherence to concussion prevention programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Garnett
- Physiotherapy Department, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
- Department of Sport, Health Sciences and Social Work, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK.
| | - Saul Cobbing
- Physiotherapy Department, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- The Institute for Education Research, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Carel Viljoen
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Amsterdam Collaboration On Health & Safety in Sports, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Movement Science, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jon Patricios
- Wits Sport and Health (WiSH), School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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King JA, Nelson LD, Cheever K, Brett B, Gliedt J, Szabo A, Dong H, Huber DL, Broglio SP, McAllister TW, McCrea M, Pasquina P, Feigenbaum LA, Hoy A, Mihalik JP, Duma SM, Buckley T, Kelly LA, Miles C, Goldman JT, Benjamin HJ, Master CL, Ortega J, Kontos A, Clugston JR, Cameron KL, Kaminski TW, Chrisman SP, Eckner JT, Port N, McGinty G. The Prevalence and Influence of New or Worsened Neck Pain After a Sport-Related Concussion in Collegiate Athletes: A Study From the CARE Consortium. Am J Sports Med 2024; 52:1845-1854. [PMID: 38742422 DOI: 10.1177/03635465241247212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neck pain in a concussion population is an emerging area of study that has been shown to have a negative influence on recovery. This effect has not yet been studied in collegiate athletes. HYPOTHESIS New or worsened neck pain is common after a concussion (>30%), negatively influences recovery, and is associated with patient sex and level of contact in sport. STUDY DESIGN Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. METHODS Varsity-level athletes from 29 National Collegiate Athletic Association member institutions as well as nonvarsity sport athletes at military service academies were eligible for enrollment. Participants completed a preseason baseline assessment and follow-up assessments at 6 and 24 to 48 hours after a concussion, when they were symptom-free, and when they returned to unrestricted play. Data collection occurred between January 2014 and September 2018. RESULTS A total of 2163 injuries were studied. New or worsened neck pain was reported with 47.0% of injuries. New or worsened neck pain was associated with patient sex (higher in female athletes), an altered mental status after the injury, the mechanism of injury, and what the athlete collided with. The presence of new/worsened neck pain was associated with delayed recovery. Those with new or worsened neck pain had 11.1 days of symptoms versus 8.8 days in those without (P < .001). They were also less likely to have a resolution of self-reported symptoms in ≤7 days (P < .001). However, the mean duration of the return-to-play protocol was not significantly different for those with new or worsened neck pain (7.5 ± 7.7 days) than those without (7.4 ± 8.3 days) (P = .592). CONCLUSION This novel study shows that neck pain was common in collegiate athletes sustaining a concussion, was influenced by many factors, and negatively affected recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A King
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA Lindsay
| | - Lindsay D Nelson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Kelly Cheever
- Applied Biomechanics Research Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, College for Health, Community and Policy, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Benjamin Brett
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jordan Gliedt
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Aniko Szabo
- Division of Biostatistics, Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Huaying Dong
- Division of Biostatistics, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Daniel L Huber
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Steven P Broglio
- University of Michigan Concussion Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Thomas W McAllister
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Michael McCrea
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Paul Pasquina
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Luis A Feigenbaum
- Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - April Hoy
- Department of Athletics, School of Behavioral and Applied Sciences, Azusa Pacific University, Azusa, California, USA
| | - Jason P Mihalik
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Stefan M Duma
- Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Science, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Thomas Buckley
- Department of Kinesiology and Applied Physiology, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Louise A Kelly
- Department of Exercise Science, California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, California, USA
| | - Chris Miles
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Joshua T Goldman
- Departments of Family Medicine and Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Holly J Benjamin
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Christina L Master
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Justus Ortega
- School of Applied Health, California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Arcata, California, USA
| | - Anthony Kontos
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - James R Clugston
- Department of Community Health and Family Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Kenneth L Cameron
- Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Research, United States Military Academy, West Point, New York, USA
| | - Thomas W Kaminski
- Department of Kinesiology and Applied Physiology, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Sara P Chrisman
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - James T Eckner
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Nicholas Port
- School of Optometry, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Gerald McGinty
- Department of Athletics, United States Air Force Academy, Air Force Academy, Colorado, USA
- Investigation performed at the Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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McPherson AL, Anderson T, Finnoff JT, Adams WM. Head Kinematics and Injury Analysis in Elite Bobsleigh Athletes Throughout a World Cup Tour. J Athl Train 2024; 59:584-593. [PMID: 37648215 PMCID: PMC11220765 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0014.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The neurocognitive health effects of repetitive head impacts have been examined in many sports. However, characterizations of head impacts for sliding-sport athletes are lacking. OBJECTIVE To describe head impact kinematics and injury epidemiology in elite athletes during the 2021-2022 Bobsleigh World Cup season. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING On-track training and competitions during the Bobsleigh World Cup season. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS Twelve elite bobsleigh athletes (3 pilots [1 female], 9 push athletes [5 females]; age = 30 ± 5 years; female height and weight = 173 ± 8 cm and 75 ± 5 kg, respectively; male height and weight = 183 ± 5 cm and 101 ± 5 kg, respectively). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Athletes wore an accelerometer-enabled mouthguard to quantify 6-degrees-of-freedom head impact kinematics. Isometric absolute and relative neck strength, number of head acceleration events (HAEs), workload (J), peak linear velocity (m·s-1), peak angular velocity (rad·s-1), peak linear acceleration (g), and peak angular acceleration (rad·s-2) were derived from mouthguard manufacturer algorithms. Linear mixed-effect models tested the effects of sex (male versus female), setting (training versus competition), and position (pilot versus push athlete) on the kinematic variables. RESULTS A total of 1900 HAEs were recorded over 48 training and 53 competition days. No differences were found between the number of HAEs per run per athlete by sex (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 0.82, P = .741), setting (IRR = 0.94, P = .325), or position (IRR = 1.64, P = .463). No sex differences were observed for workload (mean ± SD: males = 3.3 ± 2.2 J, females = 3.1 ± 1.9 J; P = .646), peak linear velocity (males = 1.1 ± 0.3 m·s-1, females = 1.1 ± 0.3 m·s-1; P = .706), peak angular velocity (males = 4.2 ± 2.1 rad·s-1, females = 4.7 ± 2.5 rad·s-1; P = .220), peak linear acceleration (male = 12.4 ± 3.9g, females = 11.9 ± 3.5g; P = .772), or peak angular acceleration (males = 610 ± 353 rad·s-2, females = 680 ± 423 rad·s-2; P = .547). Also, no effects of setting or position on any kinematic variables were seen. Male athletes had greater peak neck strength than female athletes for all neck movements, aside from right-side flexion (P = .085), but no sex differences were noted in relative neck strength. CONCLUSIONS We provide a foundational understanding of the repetitive HAEs that occur in bobsleigh athletes. Future authors should determine the effects of repetitive head impacts on neurocognitive function and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- April L. McPherson
- Department of Sports Medicine, United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, Colorado Springs
- United States Coalition for the Prevention of Illness and Injury in Sport, Colorado Springs
| | - Travis Anderson
- Department of Sports Medicine, United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, Colorado Springs
- United States Coalition for the Prevention of Illness and Injury in Sport, Colorado Springs
| | - Jonathan T. Finnoff
- Department of Sports Medicine, United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, Colorado Springs
- United States Coalition for the Prevention of Illness and Injury in Sport, Colorado Springs
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver
| | - William M. Adams
- Department of Sports Medicine, United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, Colorado Springs
- United States Coalition for the Prevention of Illness and Injury in Sport, Colorado Springs
- Department of Kinesiology, University of North Carolina-Greensboro
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine (NCSEM), UK
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8
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Streicher NS, Popovich M, Almeida A, Alsalaheen B, Ichesco IK, Freeman J, Lorincz M, Eckner JT. Understanding Abnormal Examination Findings During Concussion Recovery: A Retrospective Chart Review. Neurol Clin Pract 2024; 14:e200284. [PMID: 38699600 PMCID: PMC11065325 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000200284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objective Physical examination findings in athletes with sport-related concussion (SRC) are not well described in the literature. The objective of this study was to describe physical examination findings during the first month following concussion in athletes, with a focus on the effect of sex, age, and time since injury. Methods This was a retrospective electronic medical record (EMR) review of physical examination findings in 500 patients aged 6-24 who were initially seen within 15 days of SRC at a multidisciplinary outpatient academic concussion clinic between 2017 and 2019. A standardized concussion examination built in the EMR recorded mental status, cranial nerve, vestibulo-ocular motor screen, and balance findings for all patients. The primary outcome was the frequency of abnormal examination findings during the first 30 days postinjury, which was further analyzed by sex, age, and time since injury using mixed logistic regression models. Results The most common abnormal examination findings overall were eyes-closed single-leg stance, vestibular-ocular reflex, visual motion sensitivity, the neck examination, and eyes-closed tandem stance. Abnormal findings were more frequent in female athletes for vestibular ocular reflex and visual motion sensitivity. The frequency of abnormal findings increased with age for vestibulo-ocular reflex, visual motion sensitivity, the neck examination, convergence testing, and eyes-open single-leg stance, whereas abnormalities decreased in frequency with age for eyes-open tandem stance and tandem gait. The frequency of abnormal findings generally decreased with time over the first 4 weeks following injury. Discussion A comprehensive physical examination is pivotal for evaluation of athletes with concussion. These findings highlight high-yield components of the concussion examination and support use of these examination components as injury markers. Future work should investigate associations between physical examination findings and postconcussion symptoms and recovery outcomes. Classification of Evidence This retrospective cohort study provides Class IV evidence that neurologic examination with specifically designed clinical tests are helpful for diagnosis of traumatic brain injury in young athletes at age 6-24.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas S Streicher
- Department of Neurology (NSS, MP, AA, IKI, ML, JTE), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (NSS), Georgetown University, Washington, DC; Department of Physical Therapy (BA), University of Michigan-Flint; and Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy (JF), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Michael Popovich
- Department of Neurology (NSS, MP, AA, IKI, ML, JTE), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (NSS), Georgetown University, Washington, DC; Department of Physical Therapy (BA), University of Michigan-Flint; and Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy (JF), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Andrea Almeida
- Department of Neurology (NSS, MP, AA, IKI, ML, JTE), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (NSS), Georgetown University, Washington, DC; Department of Physical Therapy (BA), University of Michigan-Flint; and Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy (JF), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Bara Alsalaheen
- Department of Neurology (NSS, MP, AA, IKI, ML, JTE), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (NSS), Georgetown University, Washington, DC; Department of Physical Therapy (BA), University of Michigan-Flint; and Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy (JF), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Ingrid K Ichesco
- Department of Neurology (NSS, MP, AA, IKI, ML, JTE), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (NSS), Georgetown University, Washington, DC; Department of Physical Therapy (BA), University of Michigan-Flint; and Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy (JF), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Jeremiah Freeman
- Department of Neurology (NSS, MP, AA, IKI, ML, JTE), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (NSS), Georgetown University, Washington, DC; Department of Physical Therapy (BA), University of Michigan-Flint; and Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy (JF), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Matt Lorincz
- Department of Neurology (NSS, MP, AA, IKI, ML, JTE), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (NSS), Georgetown University, Washington, DC; Department of Physical Therapy (BA), University of Michigan-Flint; and Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy (JF), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - James T Eckner
- Department of Neurology (NSS, MP, AA, IKI, ML, JTE), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (NSS), Georgetown University, Washington, DC; Department of Physical Therapy (BA), University of Michigan-Flint; and Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy (JF), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
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9
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Lin CL, DeMessie B, Ye K, Hu S, Lipton ML. Neck strength alone does not mitigate adverse associations of soccer heading with cognitive performance in adult amateur players. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302463. [PMID: 38753699 PMCID: PMC11098408 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Soccer heading is adversely associated with neurocognitive performance, but whether greater neck strength or anthropometrics mitigates these outcomes is controversial. Here, we examine the effect of neck strength or anthropometrics on associations of soccer heading with neurocognitive outcomes in a large cohort of adult amateur players. METHODS 380 adult amateur league soccer players underwent standardized measurement of neck strength (forward flexion, extension, left lateral flexion, right lateral flexion) and head/neck anthropometric measures (head circumference, neck length, neck circumference and neck volume). Participants were assessed for heading (HeadCount) and cognitive performance (Cogstate) on up to 7 visits over a period of two years. Principal components analysis (PCA) was performed on 8 neck strength and anthropometric measures. We used generalized estimating equations to test the moderation effect of each of the three PCs on 8 previously identified adverse associations of 2-week and 12-month heading estimates with cognitive performance (psychomotor speed, immediate verbal recall, verbal episodic memory, attention, working memory) and of unintentional head impacts on moderate to severe central nervous system symptoms. RESULTS 3 principal components (PC's) account for 80% of the variance in the PCA. In men, PC1 represents head/neck anthropometric measures, PC2 represents neck strength measures, and PC3 represents the flexor/extensor (F/E) ratio. In women, PC1 represents neck strength, PC2 represents anthropometrics, and PC3 represents the F/E ratio. Of the 48 moderation effects tested, only one showed statistical significance after Bonferroni correction, which was not robust to extensive sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSION Neither neck strength nor anthropometrics mitigate adverse associations of soccer heading with cognitive performance in adult amateur players.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin Lun Lin
- Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Bluyé DeMessie
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Kenny Ye
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- Department of Systems and Computational Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Shanshan Hu
- The Epoch Times, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Michael L. Lipton
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
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10
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Deng R, Li B, Qin M, Yu X, Sun J, Jiao F, Huang Y. The characteristics and risk factors of fatal falls among adults aged 60 and above in Southwest China. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7020. [PMID: 38528015 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54265-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Falls constitute a leading cause of unintentional injury deaths among older adults. This study aimed to examine the comprehensive characteristics of fatal falls among older individuals in Yunnan Province, China, to highlight the challenges faced in elderly care. A total of 22,798 accidental fall-related deaths were extracted from China's National Disease Surveillance Points System aged 60 and above between 2015 and 2019. Quantitative and textual data were analyzed to assess the incidence rates of initiating factors, locations, symptoms, and overall survival (OS) outcomes after falling. Hypertension emerged as the most significant intrinsic factor, especially among individuals aged between 70 and 79, female older adults, and urban residents (P < 0.001). Home was identified as the most common location where fatal falls occurred (61.19%). The head was the most commonly injured body region (58.75%). The median of OS for all fatal falls was 2 days (0.13, 30), of which deaths occurred within 24 h [9287 (49.36%)]. There were instances where timely discovery after falling did not occur in 625 cases; their median of OS was significantly shorter compared to those discovered promptly after falling (P < 0.001). Targeted interventions focusing on fall prevention and post-fall care are equally crucial for the well-being of older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Deng
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Benyan Li
- Department of Health Insurance, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650106, China
| | - Mingfang Qin
- Yunnan Institute of Endemic Diseases Control & Prevention, Dali, 671000, China
| | - Xinyi Yu
- School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Junli Sun
- Department of Acute Infectious Diseases and Immunization Program, Mengzi Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Mengzi, 661100, China
| | - Feng Jiao
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650500, China.
| | - Yuan Huang
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650500, China.
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11
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Sturesson V, Marforio P, Reuter A, Johansson K, Ageberg E. Youth handball concussion prevention strategies: a workshop-based study with experts and end users. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2024; 10:e001877. [PMID: 38495959 PMCID: PMC10941137 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2023-001877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Sport-related concussion (SRC) is a serious injury in youth team sports, including handball. While research on the prevention of SRC has made progress over the past 5 years, prevention strategies are lacking in handball. The aim was to explore and develop strategies focusing on information, rules and training that may prevent concussion in youth handball by incorporating knowledge from experts and end users. Using a participatory methodology, experts (physiotherapy, biomechanics: n=3) and end users (players, coaches, referees, coach educators: n=7) contributed their experience and knowledge in a 2-hour online workshop. Participants were given three videos illustrating typical high-risk concussion scenarios from handball games and a youth player's accompanying fictional written scenario. In group discussions inspired by the brainwriting method, participants were asked to provide ideas for possible SRC prevention strategies related to information, rules and/or training. Data were collected on a digital whiteboard and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Three themes were derived: (1) 'Coaches' responsibility: raise awareness of the risk of injury and act to promote safe environments'; (2) 'Players' responsibility: safe defence and attack'; and (3) 'Improvement of personal skills'. Experts and end users found information about high-risk situations and SRC symptoms, stricter rules and safe playing strategy training for goalkeepers, attacking and defending players, respectively, may effectively reduce SRC in handball. Information and stricter rules could be delivered through education and dissemination activities, whereas safe playing strategies should be trained at regular handball practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Marforio
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Arlind Reuter
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Kajsa Johansson
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linkoping, Sweden
| | - Eva Ageberg
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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12
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Bouchard HC, Kelshaw PM, Bowman TG, Beidler E, Resch JE, Cifu DX, Higgins KL. Exploring the relationship between contraceptive medication use and concussion recovery in female collegiate athletes: a LIMBIC MATARS consortium investigation. Brain Inj 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38335246 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2024.2310780] [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: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE While recovery from concussion is variable, women are more likely to report symptoms, experience worse outcomes, and have longer recovery trajectories following concussion than men. Preliminary data suggest that hormonal fluctuations, specifically progesterone, may be associated with this variability. This study aimed to understand the effect of contraceptive medication on concussion recovery. METHODS A retrospective chart review using consensus-based common data elements was conducted at 11 NCAA institutions as part of the LIMBIC MATARS consortium. Participants included female collegiate athletes diagnosed with a concussion who did (n = 117) or did not report (n = 339) contraceptive medication use. Number of days between diagnosis and symptom resolution were compared using Mann-Whitney U tests. Self-reported diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, concussion history, anxiety, and depression was compared using Chi-squared tests. RESULTS The proportions of participants who did or did not take contraceptive medication were similar across covariates. Female athletes regardless of contraceptive medication use recovered similarly following a concussion. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that contraceptive medication use did not significantly impact concussion recovery. Future prospective investigations should examine documentation practices and operationalize terminology for hormonal contraceptive medication to better understand their role on recovery from sport-related concussion in female collegiate athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather C Bouchard
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Patricia M Kelshaw
- Department of Kinesiology, Brain Research & Assessment Initiative of New Hampshire (BRAIN) Laboratory, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Thomas G Bowman
- Department of Athletic Training, College of Health Sciences, University of Lynchburg, Lynchburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Erica Beidler
- Department of Athletic Training, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jacob E Resch
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - David X Cifu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Kate L Higgins
- Department of Athletics, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
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13
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Walton SR, Kelshaw PM, Munce TA, Beidler E, Bowman TG, Oldham JR, Wilmoth K, Broshek DK, Rosenblum DJ, Cifu DX, Resch JE. Access to athletic trainers and sex as modifiers of time to reach clinical milestones after sport-related concussion in collegiate athletes. Brain Inj 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38318792 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2024.2310787] [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: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Investigate whether an athlete's biological sex and exposure to a dedicated athletic trainer (AT) were related to clinical milestones after a sports-related concussion (SRC). DESIGN Retrospective chart review. METHODS Medical charts of collegiate athletes (n = 196 [70.9% female]) diagnosed with SRC were reviewed to extract: biological sex, dedicated AT exposure for their sport (yes/no), and time (days) to reaching clinical milestones (diagnosis, symptom resolution, unrestricted return to sport [RTS]). Mann-Whitney U tests were used to determine whether time to clinical milestones differed by sex, AT exposure, or their interaction. Proportions of same-day diagnoses and times to diagnosis, symptom resolution, and unrestricted RTS were evaluated with chi-squared and spearman's rank correlations, respectively. RESULTS There were no significant differences in times to reaching any clinical milestone by sex, AT exposure, or their interaction (ps > 0.05). Forty-three percent of participants were diagnosed on the day of their SRC. This did not differ by sex or AT exposure (ps > 0.29). Longer times to SRC diagnosis were associated with more days to symptom resolution (ρ = 0.236, p = 0.001) and unrestricted RTS (ρ = 0.223, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Athlete sex and AT exposure were not associated with times to reach any clinical milestone; however, delayed diagnosis was associated with longer times to reach clinical recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel R Walton
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Patricia M Kelshaw
- Department of Kinesiology, Brain Research and Assessment Initiative of New Hampshire Laboratory, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Thayne A Munce
- Environmental Influences on Health & Disease Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA
| | - Erica Beidler
- Department of Athletic Training, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Thomas G Bowman
- Department of Athletic Training, College of Health Sciences, University of Lynchburg, Lynchburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Jessie R Oldham
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Kristin Wilmoth
- Departments of Psychiatry and of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Donna K Broshek
- Department of Psychiatry & Neurobehavioral Sciences, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Daniel J Rosenblum
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - David X Cifu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Jacob E Resch
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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14
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Brown M, Tracy RE. Preliminary evidence for neck musculature in shaping functional stereotypes of men's relationship motives. Scand J Psychol 2024; 65:136-143. [PMID: 37641888 DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Neck musculature is reliably diagnostic of men's formidability and central to several inferences of their physical prowess. These inferences facilitate stereotypes of men's social value from which perceivers estimate their abilities to satisfy reproductive goals related to mate acquisition and parental care. Participants evaluated men's interest in various mating and parenting strategies, wherein men varied in the size of visible neck musculature through trapezii and sternocleidomastoids for perceivers to identify potential reproductive interests and goals. Large trapezii elicited perceptions of men as more effective at protecting offspring, albeit at the expense of nurturance and interest in long-term pair bonds. Results extend previous findings implicating formidability as central to relationship decisions by considering a novel modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitch Brown
- University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA
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15
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Demetriades AK, Shah I, Marklund N, Clusmann H, Peul W. Sport-related concussion in soccer -a scoping review of available guidelines and a call for action to FIFA & soccer governing bodies. BRAIN & SPINE 2024; 4:102763. [PMID: 38510627 PMCID: PMC10951760 DOI: 10.1016/j.bas.2024.102763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Sport-related concussions (SRC) have been a concern in all sports, including soccer. The long-term effects of soccer-related head injuries are a public health concern. The Concussion in Sport Group (CISG) released a consensus statement in 2017 and several soccer governing associations have published their own SRC guidelines while referring to it but it is unclear whether this has been universally adopted. Research question We aimed to investigate whether guidelines published by soccer associations have any discrepancies; and the extent to which they follow the CISG recommendations. Materials and methods A scoping review of available soccer-specific SRC guidelines was performed via databases PubMed, Google Scholar, and official soccer association websites via web browser Google. The inclusion criteria were soccer-specific SRC guidelines. Comparisons between guidelines were made concerning the following index items: initial (on-site) assessment, removal from play, re-evaluation with neuroimaging, return-to-sport protocol, special populations, and education. Results Nine soccer associations with available guidelines were included in this review. Guidelines obtained were from official associations in the United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. When compared to each other and the CISG recommendations, discrepancies were found within guidelines regarding the index items. Additionally, major soccer associations in some countries famous for soccer were found to have not published any publicly available guidelines. Discussion and conclusion SRC guidelines from different soccer associations contain discrepancies which may be detrimental to athletes, both short and long-term. We recommend that all major soccer governing associations publish guidelines that are standardised and accessible to all athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas K. Demetriades
- Leiden University Neurosurgical Center Holland, HMC-HAGA the Hague & LUMC Leiden, Netherlands
- Department of Neurosurgery, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Imran Shah
- Department of Neurosurgery, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Niklas Marklund
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Neurosurgery, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Neurosurgery, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Hans Clusmann
- Department of Neurosurgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Wilco Peul
- Leiden University Neurosurgical Center Holland, HMC-HAGA the Hague & LUMC Leiden, Netherlands
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16
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Wahlquist VE, Glutting JJ, Kaminski TW. Examining the influence of the Get aHEAD Safely in Soccer™ program on head impact kinematics and neck strength in female youth soccer players. Res Sports Med 2024; 32:17-27. [PMID: 35611394 DOI: 10.1080/15438627.2022.2079982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The objective was to examine the efficacy of the Get aHEAD Safely in Soccer™ intervention on head impact kinematics and neck strength in female youth soccer players. The control group (CG) consisted of 13 players (age: 11.0 ± 0.4 yrs), while the experimental group (EG) consisted of 14 players (age: 10.6 ± 0.5 yrs). Head impact kinematics included peak linear acceleration (PLA), peak rotational acceleration (PRA), and peak rotational velocity (PRV). Pre- and post-season measures included strength measures of neck/torso flexion (NF/TF) and extension (NE/TE). Data were analysed using a multilevel linear model and ANOVA techniques. No differences in PLA, PRA, or PRV were observed between groups. The EG showed significant improvement in NF strength while the CG showed significant improvement in NE strength. Both groups significantly improved in TF pre- to post-season. The foundational strength components of the Get aHEAD Safely in Soccer program appear to show a benefit in youth soccer players beginning to learn the skill of purposeful heading.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thomas W Kaminski
- Athletic Training Research Laboratory, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
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17
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Rotundo MP, Sokol-Randell D, Bleakley C, Donnelly P, Tierney G. Characteristics of potential concussive events in elite hurling: a video-analysis study. Ir J Med Sci 2023; 192:3175-3185. [PMID: 36800054 PMCID: PMC10692028 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-023-03307-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High-impact sports such as hurling place participants at risk of sport-related concussion (SRC). AIMS This study will evaluate the characteristics of potential concussive events (PCEs) that occur in elite male hurling to acquire an understanding of how they occur. METHODS The authors recorded PCEs and their characteristics throughout two seasons of inter-county GAA competition using broadcast footage based on a previously validated protocol. RESULTS A total of 183 PCEs were identified over 82 inter-county matches (2.23 per match; 59.5 per 1000 h of exposure). PCEs that occurred in the 4th quarter were significantly more likely to result in signs of SRC. Players most often intended to receive/control the sliotar (36.4%, n = 64) prior to PCEs. The most frequently observed mechanism was shoulder-to-head (20.2%, n = 37). Impacts to the lateral aspect of the head were 2.7 times more likely to result in visible signs than impacts to anteroposterior regions. CONCLUSIONS Players appear to be at a higher risk of SRC later in the match or when receiving the sliotar. Strikes to the lateral aspect of the head and those involving the shoulder appear to produce severe events. These findings provide initial guidance for the development of targeted player protection strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario P Rotundo
- Sport and Exercise Science Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, UK.
- Department of Family Practice, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
| | - Darek Sokol-Randell
- Sport and Exercise Science Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
- Department of Neurology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St John's, Canada
| | - Chris Bleakley
- Sport and Exercise Science Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
| | - Paul Donnelly
- Sport and Exercise Science Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
| | - Gregory Tierney
- Sport and Exercise Science Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
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18
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Garrett JM, Mastrorocco M, Peek K, van den Hoek DJ, McGuckian TB. The Relationship Between Neck Strength and Sports-Related Concussion in Team Sports: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2023; 53:585–593. [PMID: 37428807 DOI: 10.2519/jospt.2023.11727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: We aimed to quantify the relationship between neck strength and sports-related concussion (SRC) for athletes participating in team sports. DESIGN: Etiology systematic review with meta-analysis. LITERATURE SEARCH: PubMed, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, CINAHL, CENTRAL, and Scopus were searched on March 17, 2022, and updated on April 18, 2023. STUDY SELECTION CRITERIA: Team sports where an opponent invades the player's territory (eg, football, rugby, basketball) that reported at least 1 measure of neck strength, and 1 measure of SRC incidence, using cohort, case-control, or cross-sectional study designs. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale was used to assess risk of bias; certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. DATA SYNTHESIS: Studies were summarized qualitatively and quantitatively. To understand the relationship between neck strength and future SRC incidence, random-effects meta-analysis was conducted on prospective longitudinal studies. RESULTS: From a total of 1445 search results, eight studies including 7625 participants met the inclusion criteria. Five studies reported a relationship between greater neck strength or motor control and reduced concussion incidence. Pooled results from 4 studies indicated small (r = 0.08-0.14) nonsignificant effects with substantial heterogeneity (I2>90%). The considerable heterogeneity is likely a result of synthesized studies with vastly different sample characteristics, including participant age, playing level, and sports. CONCLUSIONS: There was very low-certainty evidence suggesting a small, nonsignificant relationship between greater neck strength and a lower risk of sustaining a SRC. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2023;53(10):1-9. Epub: 10 July 2023. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11727.
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19
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Heck SJ, Acord-Vira A, Davis DR. Sex differences in college students' knowledge of concussion and concussion education sources. Concussion 2023; 8:CNC108. [PMID: 37691852 PMCID: PMC10488458 DOI: 10.2217/cnc-2023-0001] [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: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim To understand sex differences and sources of concussion education for college students. The literature for college students primarily focuses on sports concussions and general knowledge. Understanding how non-students-athletes learn is critical to developing interventions to improve concussion knowledge. Participants A random sample of 208 students from four-year institutions. Methods A 22-question online survey explored postsecondary students' current knowledge and education regarding concussions. Results Findings indicated that sex differences emerged with concussion knowledge and sources of concussion knowledge (e.g., leaflets, pamphlets, parents, and television). The top choices for where they wanted to learn about concussions were health educators, health centers, and campus peer educators. Conclusion This study provides an initial evaluation and implications for future research on providing concussion education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Heck
- Social & Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Amanda Acord-Vira
- Division of Occupational Therapy, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Diana R Davis
- Division of Occupational Therapy, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
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20
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Gorla C, Martins TDS, Florencio LL, Pinheiro-Araújo CF, Fernández-de-las-Peñas C, Martins J, Bevilaqua-Grossi D. Reference Values for Cervical Muscle Strength in Healthy Women Using a Hand-Held Dynamometer and the Association with Age and Anthropometric Variables. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2278. [PMID: 37628476 PMCID: PMC10454699 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11162278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Knowledge of reference values for cervical muscle strength is a key tool for clinicians to use as a clinical reference measure and to establish goals during rehabilitation. The objective was to establish reference values for the maximal strength of cervical muscles in healthy women using a handheld dynamometer and verify the association of cervical muscle strength with age and anthropometric measurements. A hundred women were classified into four groups (n = 25) according to age: 18-29 years, 30-39 years, 40-49 years, and 50-60 years. Maximal muscle strength of the cervical spine was measured using a Lafayette® handheld dynamometer for flexion, extension, and bilateral lateral flexion. No differences in cervical muscle strength were observed among the groups (p > 0.05). However, the 18-29-year-old group took less time to reach the peak of force for flexion than the 50-60-year-old group. Moderate correlations were observed between cervical flexor strength and weight, body mass index, and neck circumference, and between cervical extensor strength and weight and body mass index (r = 0.43-0.55; p < 0.05). Reference values for cervical muscle strength in healthy women were established using a handheld dynamometer, and the association between muscle strength and anthropometric data was moderate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Gorla
- Department of Health Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil; (C.G.); (T.d.S.M.); (C.F.P.-A.); (J.M.); (D.B.-G.)
- Department of Biological and Health Sciences, University of Araraquara, Araraquara 14801-320, SP, Brazil
| | - Taís de Souza Martins
- Department of Health Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil; (C.G.); (T.d.S.M.); (C.F.P.-A.); (J.M.); (D.B.-G.)
| | - Lidiane Lima Florencio
- Department of Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Rey Juan Carlos, 28922 Alcorcón, Spain;
| | - Carina Ferreira Pinheiro-Araújo
- Department of Health Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil; (C.G.); (T.d.S.M.); (C.F.P.-A.); (J.M.); (D.B.-G.)
| | - César Fernández-de-las-Peñas
- Department of Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Rey Juan Carlos, 28922 Alcorcón, Spain;
| | - Jaqueline Martins
- Department of Health Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil; (C.G.); (T.d.S.M.); (C.F.P.-A.); (J.M.); (D.B.-G.)
| | - Débora Bevilaqua-Grossi
- Department of Health Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil; (C.G.); (T.d.S.M.); (C.F.P.-A.); (J.M.); (D.B.-G.)
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21
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Peek K, Duffield R, Cairns R, Jones M, Meyer T, McCall A, Oxenham V. Where are We Headed? Evidence to Inform Future Football Heading Guidelines. Sports Med 2023; 53:1335-1358. [PMID: 37285067 PMCID: PMC10289964 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01852-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Given the scientific and public concern regarding the short-, medium- and long-term consequences of heading on brain health, being proactive about developing and implementing guidelines that help reduce the burden (volume, impact magnitude and injury risk) of heading in young and beginner players appears justified. This narrative review explores the evidence underpinning strategies that could be incorporated into future heading guidelines to reduce heading burden in players across all levels of football. A four-step search strategy was utilised to identify all data-based papers related to heading in football. Eligibility criteria for inclusion were: (1) original data, (2) study population included football players, (3) outcome measures included one or more of the following: number of headers, measurement of head acceleration during heading, or head/brain injury incidence, and (4) published in English or English translation available. In total, 58 papers were included that outlined strategies based on (1) game or team development, (2) player skill development and (3) equipment. In particular, greater emphasis existed for small-sided games (particularly in young players) where fewer headers are observed when compared with the conventional 11 versus 11 game, as well as reducing headers from goal kicks and corners. Evidence also existed for developing a heading coaching framework that focusses on technical proficiency as well as neuromuscular neck exercises integrated into general injury reduction exercise programs, enforcement of rules related to deliberate head contact and using lower-pressure match and training balls. To mitigate potential risks of heading on brain health, a number of pragmatic strategies have been examined in scientific studies and may be considered as part of future heading guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry Peek
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Rob Duffield
- School of Sport, Exercsie & Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
- Football Australia, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Ross Cairns
- Newcastle Sports Medicine, Warners Bay, NSW Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Mark Jones
- Football Australia, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Tim Meyer
- Institute of Sports and Preventive Medicine, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Alan McCall
- School of Sport, Exercsie & Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
- Football Australia, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Vincent Oxenham
- School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW Australia
- Department of Neuropsychology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, NSW Australia
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22
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Oranchuk DJ, Gullett LK, Kicia M, Thome B, Game A. The Relationship of Anthropometric and Physical Performance Characteristics on Competitive Success in Amateur, Elite, and Professional Rodeo Athletes. J Strength Cond Res 2023; 37:1495-1506. [PMID: 37129597 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Oranchuk, DJ, Gullett, LK, Kicia, M, Thome, B, and Game, A. The relationship of anthropometric and physical performance characteristics on competitive success in amateur, elite, and professional rodeo athletes. J Strength Cond Res 37(7): 1495-1506, 2023-Reference anthropometric and physical performance qualities can improve understanding of sporting needs and streamline preparation and rehabilitation programs. However, these data and their relationships with competitive success are absent in rodeo athletes. We hypothesized that riding performance would be most correlated with hip adductor, neck, and grip strength, whereas jump, reactive strength index (RSI), and change of direction abilities would best predict bull-fighting performance. Forty-three amateur ( n = 9), professional ( n = 23), or internationally ranked ( n = 11) male rodeo athletes (bareback = 9, bull riders = 16, saddle bronc = 7, bullfighters = 11) (26.8 ± 5.6 years) volunteered for this study. Anthropometrics included body mass, height, and body fat percentage. Performance measures included isometric hip adduction and abduction, neck flexion and extension, handgrip strength, squat and countermovement jump heights, eccentric utilization ratio, reactive strength index, change of direction, bike sprints, and several pneumatic power measures. Bullfighters were taller and heavier than bull riders (effect size [ES] = 0.84-0.87, p = 0.008-0.017). Bull riders were leaner than bullfighters (ES = 0.74, p = 0.012). Fighters had greater RSI than riders (ES = 0.73-1.47, p < 0.001-0.030). Competitive level of rodeo riders ( n = 32) correlated with age, rodeo experience (ρ = 0.37-0.43, p = 0.013-0.049), bent-leg abduction (ρ = 0.43, p = 0.014), straight-leg hip adduction and abduction (ρ = 0.49-0.56, p < 0.001-0.005), neck flexion force (ρ = 0.43, p = 0.016), and rotational power (ρ = 0.50, p = 0.004). The competitive level of the fighters correlated with age (ρ = 0.64, p = 0.036) and time trial performance (ρ = -0.76, p = 0.006). This is the first study providing normative and correlational strength and power performance data in a rodeo population. These data highlight the need for more event-specific physical preparation. Riders should focus their physical preparation on hip and neck strength and rotational power. Bullfighters should prioritize stiffness and anaerobic power.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin J Oranchuk
- Acumen Health, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Health and Rehabilitation Research Institute, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - LeeAnne K Gullett
- Acumen Health, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Canadian Professional Rodeo Sports Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; and
| | | | - Brandon Thome
- Canadian Professional Rodeo Sports Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; and
| | - Alex Game
- Faculty of Kinesiology, The University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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23
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Boynton AM, Truong TE, Luttmer NG, Merryweather AS, Minor MA, Carrier DR. Axial muscle activation provides stabilization against perturbations while running. Hum Mov Sci 2023; 89:103096. [PMID: 37163968 DOI: 10.1016/j.humov.2023.103096] [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: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Incidence of traumatic brain injury is an important hazard in sports and recreation. Unexpected (blind-sided) impacts with other players, obstacles, and the ground can be particularly dangerous. We believe this is partially due to the lack of muscular activation which would have otherwise provided protective bracing. In this study participants were asked to run on the treadmill while undergoing perturbations applied at the waist which pulled participants in the fore-aft and lateral directions. To determine the effect of unexpected impacts, participants were given a directional audio-visual warning 0.5 s prior to the perturbation in half of the trials and were unwarned in the other half of the trials. Perturbations were given during the start of the stance phase and during the start of the flight phase to examine two distinct points within the locomotor cycle. Muscle activity was monitored in axial muscles before, during, and after the perturbations were given. We hypothesized that the presence of a warning would allow for voluntary axial muscle activity prior to and during perturbations that would provide bracing of the body, and decreased displacement and acceleration of the head compared to unwarned perturbations. Our results indicate that when a warning is given prior to perturbation, the body was displaced significantly less, and the linear acceleration of the head was also significantly lessened in response to some perturbations. The perturbations given in this study caused significant increases in axial muscle activity compared to activity present during control running. We found evidence that cervical and abdominal muscles increased activity in response to the warning and that typically the warned trials displayed a lower reflexive muscle activity response. Additionally, we found a stronger effect of the warnings on muscle activity within the perturbations given during flight phase than those given at stance phase. Results from this study support the hypothesis that knowledge regarding an impending perturbation is used by the neuromuscular system to activate relevant core musculature and provide bracing to the athlete.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia M Boynton
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA.
| | - Takara E Truong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Nathaniel G Luttmer
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Andrew S Merryweather
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Mark A Minor
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - David R Carrier
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
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Liston M, Leckey C, Whale A, van Dyk N. Neck Strength Assessment Offers No Clinical Value in Predicting Concussion in Male Professional Rugby Players: A Prospective Cohort Study. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2023; 53:317–323. [PMID: 37017931 DOI: 10.2519/jospt.2023.11723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To determine if neck muscle strength and endurance are associated with concussion injuries in professional, male rugby players. Playing position, history of previous concussion, and age were also considered. DESIGN: Prospective cohort study METHODS: One hundred thirty-six male, professional rugby players completed neck strength testing that comprised a peak isometric test, an endurance test, and a concussion screening questionnaire. Electronic medical records were analyzed for head injury data. RESULTS: Out of 136 players (mean age, 25.3 ± 3.4 years; height, 186 ± 7 cm; weight, 103 ± 13.2 kg), 40 players suffered from 51 concussions in the 2017/18 playing season. A history of concussion was reported by 65% of the cohort. Multiple logistic regression analysis found that peak isometric flexion strength was not associated with concussion risk. Increased peak isometric extension strength was associated with significantly greater odds of sustaining a concussion (odds ratio [OR] = 1.01; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.01, does not include 1; P = .04) that is likely too small to be clinically relevant. Players with a self-reported history of concussion had over 2 times greater odds of sustaining a concussion (OR = 2.25; 95% CI: 0.73, 6.22). More than 2 concussions in the past 12 months was associated with almost tenfold greater odds of concussion (OR = 9.51; 95% CI: 1.66, 54.55). Age, playing position, and neck muscle endurance were not associated with concussion. CONCLUSION: The strongest predictor of concussion injury was previous concussion. Players who sustained concussions in season had similar neck muscle strength to players who had not sustained a concussion. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2023;53(5):1-7. Epub: 5 April 2023. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11723.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mairead Liston
- High Performance Unit, Irish Rugby Football Union, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Chris Leckey
- High Performance Unit, Irish Rugby Football Union, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sport Sciences, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Andrew Whale
- High Performance Unit, Irish Rugby Football Union, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nicol van Dyk
- High Performance Unit, Irish Rugby Football Union, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sport Sciences, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Section Sports Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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25
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Mitchell CV, Nagai T, Bates NA, Schilaty ND. Neck strength and force in reaction time task of adolescent athletes with and without concussion history: A pilot study. Phys Ther Sport 2023; 61:192-197. [PMID: 37119609 DOI: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2023.04.008] [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: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Assess the impact of concussion by comparing reaction time, peak force recruitment, and rate of force development of adolescent athletes returning from concussion against age- and sex-matched controls in visual-elicited neck movement. DESIGN Athletes sat secured in a custom-built isometric device with their heads secured in a helmet and attached to a 6-axis load cell. They performed neck flexion, extension, and lateral flexion in response to a visual cue. Three trials in each direction were used for statistical analyses; peak force and rate of force development were normalized against athlete mass. SETTING Laboratory. PARTICIPANTS 26 adolescent/young adult athletes (8F/18M), either recently concussed (and cleared for return to sport) or an age- and sex-matched healthy control. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Reaction time, angle, standard deviation of angle, deviation from target angle, peak force, and RFD over 50, 100, 150,and 200 ms of movement were measured for each trial. RESULTS Concussed athletes had decreased normalized peak force (P = 0.008) and rate of force development (P < 0.001-0.007). In neck extension, concussed athletes also had decreased movement precision (P = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS Concussion is associated with alterations of neck biomechanics that decrease overall neck strength.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Takashi Nagai
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA, USA
| | - Nathaniel A Bates
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Orthopaedics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Nathan D Schilaty
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Neurosurgery & Brain Repair, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA; Department of Medical Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA; Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.
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26
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Cosgrave C, Fuller C, Kung S, Cosgrave M, McFadden C, Franklyn-Miller A. A comparison of clinical assessment with common diagnostic tools for monitoring concussion recovery in adolescent rugby union players. Phys Ther Sport 2023; 61:165-171. [PMID: 37068386 DOI: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2023.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To characterise the incidence, severity and recovery of sport-related concussion (SRC) in schoolboy rugby players and explore whether the Sports Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT), Cogstate Brief Battery (CBB) and the King-Devick test (K-D test) can be used to monitor concussion status through to full recovery. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Rugby union has a high rate of SRC; however, there is little research investigating how concussion affects adolescent rugby players. PARTICIPANTS Schoolboy rugby players. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Participants completed baseline tests in the preseason. Participants diagnosed with SRC during the season attended for post-concussion testing on a weekly basis until recovered. RESULTS 135 schoolboy rugby players (16.7 ± 0.82y) participated in the study. There were 18 SRCs in 16 participants. Concussion incidence was 9/1000 player hours. CBB and K-D tests were poorly associated with clinical assessment and produced high false negative rates (0.58 and 0.52 respectively). CONCLUSIONS This study reports a relatively high match SRC incidence for an adolescent population. Analysis of clinical recovery with CBB and K-D test revealed a relatively poor ability to accurately monitor concussion status compared to clinical assessment suggesting that these tools should not be used in isolation for monitoring SRC recovery in adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Colm Fuller
- Sports Surgery Clinic, Santry Demesne, Dublin 9, Ireland.
| | - Stacey Kung
- Sports Surgery Clinic, Santry Demesne, Dublin 9, Ireland.
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Majcen Rosker Z, Kristjansson E, Vodicar M. How well can we detect cervical driven sensorimotor dysfunction in concussion patients? An observational study comparing patients with idiopathic neck pain, whiplash associated disorders and concussion. Gait Posture 2023; 101:21-27. [PMID: 36701850 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2023.01.011] [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] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) suffer from sensorimotor impairments. Evidence is emerging that cervical spine plays an important role in mTBI, but it is not known how cervicocephalic kinaesthetic sensibility measured during dynamic unpredictable head movements and measures of position sense, cervical induced postural balance and eye movement control differ between mTBI, whiplash associated disorders (WAD) patients, idiopathic neck pain patients and healthy controls. RESEARCH QUESTION Are cervical sensorimotor deficits present in mTBI patients and do they differ from sensorimotor deficits found in traumatic and nontraumatic neck pain patients and whether they differ from healthy controls. METHODS Twenty idiopathic neck pain patients, 18 WAD, 17 mTBI and 20 healthy controls were enroled in the study. Frequency and velocity of centre of pressure movements were measured during parallel stance in the neutral and neck torsion positions, gain and smooth pursuit neck torsion difference of eye movements during smooth pursuit neck torsion test (SPNTT) and cervicocephalic kinaesthesia using Butterfly and head-to-neutral relocation test. RESULTS Statistically significant differences in postural balance, both tests of cervicocephalic kinaesthesia and SPNTT were observed between healthy controls and all patient groups. No differences were observed between patient groups for SPNTT, Butterfly and head-to-neutral relocation test, but differences were present in postural balance between mTBI and both groups of patients with neck pain disorders. Differences were found in the ML direction for mTBI, but not differences were found for AP direction. SIGNIFICANCE Results of our study show that mTBI present with similar impairment in cervical driven sensorimotor deficits as patients with neck pain disorders, but they differ from healthy individuals. Clinical practice would benefit from identifying cervical spine related sensorimotor impairments in patients with mTBI. This could enable to design more targeted prevention and rehabilitation programs to minimise cervical spine related disorders in concussion patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziva Majcen Rosker
- Faculty of Sport, University of Ljubljana, Gortanova 22, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | | | - Miha Vodicar
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Macdonald ND, Baumann O. Predictors of concussion reporting intentions in adolescent hockey players. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 43:1-7. [PMID: 36819751 PMCID: PMC9918826 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-023-04316-7] [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: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Young athletes who do not report a concussion injury are at greater risk for a prolonged recovery time and further neurocognitive impairments. Despite the seriousness of the issue and the scale of the problem, not enough is known about the behavioural underpinnings of concussion underreporting in minor athletes. This paper aims to apply the Knowledge, Attitude, and Behaviour (KAB) framework to the issue of injury reporting in adolescents, with the specific purpose of exploring to which degree concussion knowledge, concussion attitudes, and gender affect concussion reporting intentions of both male and female athletes. We recruited 97 young athletes between the ages of 14 and 19 (M = 16.22, SD = 11.06) from the Okanagan Hockey Academy (Canada) and employed a self-administered supervised survey approach to measuring the target variables. A hierarchical multiple regression was conducted, and consistent with the prior literature, females were more likely to report a sport-related concussion than males. It was further found that attitudes around concussions (i.e., taking concussions seriously) were significant predictors of concussion reporting intention. At the same time, there was no significant relationship between concussion knowledge and concussion reporting intention. These results highlight that knowledge about concussion symptoms is insufficient to warrant proper injury reporting. It will therefore be essential to work on changing the attitudes of young athletes regarding the significance of concussions to achieve meaningful behavioural change.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Oliver Baumann
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD Australia
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29
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Carmo GP, Grigioni J, Fernandes FAO, Alves de Sousa RJ. Biomechanics of Traumatic Head and Neck Injuries on Women: A State-of-the-Art Review and Future Directions. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12010083. [PMID: 36671775 PMCID: PMC9855362 DOI: 10.3390/biology12010083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The biomechanics of traumatic injuries of the human body as a consequence of road crashes, falling, contact sports, and military environments have been studied for decades. In particular, traumatic brain injury (TBI), the so-called "silent epidemic", is the traumatic insult responsible for the greatest percentage of death and disability, justifying the relevance of this research topic. Despite its great importance, only recently have research groups started to seriously consider the sex differences regarding the morphology and physiology of women, which differs from men and may result in a specific outcome for a given traumatic event. This work aims to provide a summary of the contributions given in this field so far, from clinical reports to numerical models, covering not only the direct injuries from inertial loading scenarios but also the role sex plays in the conditions that precede an accident, and post-traumatic events, with an emphasis on neuroendocrine dysfunctions and chronic traumatic encephalopathy. A review on finite element head models and finite element neck models for the study of specific traumatic events is also performed, discussing whether sex was a factor in validating them. Based on the information collected, improvement perspectives and future directions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo P. Carmo
- Centre for Mechanical Technology and Automation (TEMA), Department of Mechanical Engineering, Campus Universitário de Santiago, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Jeroen Grigioni
- Centre for Mechanical Technology and Automation (TEMA), Department of Mechanical Engineering, Campus Universitário de Santiago, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Fábio A. O. Fernandes
- Centre for Mechanical Technology and Automation (TEMA), Department of Mechanical Engineering, Campus Universitário de Santiago, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- LASI—Intelligent Systems Associate Laboratory, 4800-058 Guimaraes, Portugal
| | - Ricardo J. Alves de Sousa
- Centre for Mechanical Technology and Automation (TEMA), Department of Mechanical Engineering, Campus Universitário de Santiago, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- LASI—Intelligent Systems Associate Laboratory, 4800-058 Guimaraes, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-234-370-200
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Stephenson K, Womble MN, Frascoia C, Eagle SR, Covassin T, Kontos AP, Collins MW, Elbin RJ. Sex Differences on the Concussion Clinical Profiles Screening in Adolescents With Sport-Related Concussion. J Athl Train 2023; 58:65-70. [PMID: 35476058 PMCID: PMC9913053 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0670.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Sex differences influence symptom presentations after sport-related concussion and may be a risk factor for certain concussion clinical profiles. OBJECTIVE To examine sex differences on the Concussion Clinical Profile Screen (CP Screen) in adolescents after sport-related concussion. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING A concussion specialty clinic. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS A total of 276 adolescent (age = 15.02 ± 1.43 years; girls = 152 [55%]) athletes with a recently diagnosed concussion (≤30 days). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The 5 CP Screen profiles (anxiety mood, cognitive fatigue, migraine, vestibular, ocular) and 2 modifiers (neck, sleep), symptom total, and symptom severity scores were compared using a series of Mann-Whitney U tests between boys and girls. RESULTS Girls (n = 152) scored higher than boys (n = 124) on the cognitive fatigue (U = 7160.50, z = -3.46, P = .001) and anxiety mood (U = 7059, z = -3.62, P < .001) factors but not on the migraine (U = 7768, z = -2.52, P = .01) factor. Girls also endorsed a greater number of symptoms (n = 124; U = 27233, z = -3.33, P = .001) and scored higher in symptom severity (U = 7049, z = -3.60, P < .001) than boys. CONCLUSIONS Among adolescents, symptom endorsement on the CP Screen varied based on sex, and clinicians need to be aware of these differences, especially when evaluating postconcussion presentation in the absence of baseline data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Stephenson
- Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation/Office for Sport Concussion Research, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
| | | | - Chelsea Frascoia
- Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation/Office for Sport Concussion Research, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
| | - Shawn R Eagle
- University of Pittsburgh Sports Medicine Concussion Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, PA
| | - Tracey Covassin
- Department of Kinesiology, Michigan State University, Lansing
| | - Anthony P Kontos
- University of Pittsburgh Sports Medicine Concussion Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, PA
| | - Michael W Collins
- University of Pittsburgh Sports Medicine Concussion Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, PA
| | - R J Elbin
- Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation/Office for Sport Concussion Research, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
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Bussey MD, Pinfold J, Romanchuk J, Salmon D. Anticipatory head control mechanisms in response to impact perturbations: An investigation of club rugby players with and without a history of concussion injury. Phys Ther Sport 2023; 59:7-16. [PMID: 36442352 DOI: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2022.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The primary objective of this study was to examine rugby players anticipatory and compensatory head control during predictable and unpredictable impact events. METHODS An observational cross-sectional study design. Fifty-one (17_healthy 34_concussion) male rugby players were exposed to external predictable and unpredictable impact perturbations at mid-chest level. Surface EMG of the upper-trapezius (UT), splenius-capitis (Spl) and sternocleidomastoid (Scm) was recorded and analysed across three temporal epochs typical for anticipatory and compensatory postural control. Synchronized sagittal head-kinematics were measured from high-speed video (500 fps). Nonparametric tests were used to examine within and between group effects. RESULTS Anticipatory head control was evident in predictable conditions, expressed by early posterior head displacement and activation of the Spl. Compared to unpredictable conditions, muscle amplitudes were significantly lower, as was head acceleration. Compared to Healthy, the Concussion athletes lacked early activation of the Spl, exhibited delayed anticipatory head adjustments and experienced higher head accelerations in predictable conditions. CONCLUSION Rugby players with concussion injuries have significant deficits in cervical spinal motor control. The concussed motor control strategy leads to higher inertial head accelerations and delayed anticipatory head displacements. Effects may persist for two or more years following injury, which may indicate re-injury vulnerability in these athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie D Bussey
- School of Physical Education Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, New Zealand.
| | - Jayden Pinfold
- School of Physical Education Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, New Zealand; Hawke's Bay Rugby, New Zealand.
| | - Janelle Romanchuk
- School of Physical Education Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, New Zealand; New Zealand Rugby, New Zealand.
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Intra and Inter-Rater Reliability of a Novel Isometric Test of Neck Strength. Sports (Basel) 2022; 11:sports11010002. [PMID: 36668706 PMCID: PMC9860534 DOI: 10.3390/sports11010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
There is no single, universally accepted method of measuring isometric neck strength to inform exercise prescription and injury risk prediction. This study aimed to establish the inter- and intra-rater reliability of a commercially available fixed frame dynamometer in measuring peak isometric neck strength. A convenience sample of male (n = 16) and female (n = 20) university students performed maximal isometric contractions for flexion (Flex), extension (Ext), left- (LSF) and right-side flexion (RSF) in a quadruped position over three sessions. The intra-rater reliability results were good-to-excellent for both males (ICC = 0.83−0.90) and females (ICC = 0.86−0.94) and acceptable (CV < 15%) across all directions for both males and females. The inter-rater reliability results were excellent (ICC = 0.96−0.97) and acceptable (CV < 11.1%) across all directions. Findings demonstrated a significant effect for sex (p ≤ 0.05): males were stronger in all four directions, and a significant effect for direction (p ≤ 0.05): Ext tested stronger (193 N) than Flex (176 N), LSF (130 N) and RSF (125 N). The findings show that the VALD fixed frame dynamometer can reliably assess isometric neck strength and can provides reference values for healthy males and females.
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Cheever K, King J, Kawata K. The association between contact sport exposure and cervical sensorimotor dysfunction: a scoping review of implications for future musculoskeletal injury risk. Chiropr Man Therap 2022; 30:50. [PMID: 36434725 PMCID: PMC9701076 DOI: 10.1186/s12998-022-00458-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While morphological changes to the cervical spine have been observed for over 40 years in response to contact sport participation, little is known about the secondary effects of the cervical impairment on future musculoskeletal injury and disability. OBJECTIVES AND DESIGN A scoping review was performed to discuss the relationship between contact sport participation and morphological changes to the cervical spine. Moreover, the correlation between morphological changes in the musculoskeletal structures of the cervical spine and resultant deficits in cervical sensorimotor and neuromotor function are discussed. Lastly, how alterations in cervical sensorimotor function may affect overall risk of musculoskeletal injury is discussed. METHODS The scientific literature was searched in PubMed, Sport Discus, and Web of Science pertaining to contact-sport athletes and/or cervical pathology and the cervicocephalic network. The Asksey and O'Malley's framework and PRISMA for Scoping Reviews were used to conduct and report the following review. Included articles were grouped into three categories: (1) Morphological changes to the cervical spine in contact sport athletes. (2) The role of the neuromotor pathways of the cervical spine in maintenance of postural tone and coordination of the extremities. (3) The correlation between altered cervical sensorimotor function and a resultant increase in musculoskeletal injury risk. RESULTS Our search identified 566 documents, of which 405 underwent full-text screening, resulting in 54 eligible studies for the review. Widespread cervical sensorimotor dysfunction was observed in contact sport athletes. Independently, cervical sensorimotor function was demonstrated to play a critical role in postural control and limb coordination. However, limited research exists exploring the interaction between contact sport participation and altered cervical sensorimotor function, as well as an associated increase in musculoskeletal injury risk. CONCLUSIONS Limited evidence exists linking cervical injury and/or observed deficits in cervical sensorimotor and neuromotor function to musculoskeletal injury risk. Longitudinal studies combining imaging measures (e.g., MRI, DEXA), cervical functional test, and prospective injury risk are needed to further explore the correlation between resultant cervical sensorimotor deficits following contact sport impacts and future musculoskeletal injury risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Cheever
- Applied Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, College of Health, Community and Policy, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Cir, San Antonio, TX, 78429, USA.
| | - Jeffery King
- grid.30760.320000 0001 2111 8460Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI USA
| | - Keisuke Kawata
- grid.411377.70000 0001 0790 959XDepartment of Kinesiology, School of Public Health-Bloomington, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN USA ,grid.411377.70000 0001 0790 959XProgram in Neuroscience, College of Arts and Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN USA
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Waring KM, Smith ER, Austin GP, Bowman TG. Exploring the Effects of a Neck Strengthening Program on Purposeful Soccer Heading Biomechanics and Neurocognition. Int J Sports Phys Ther 2022; 17:1043-1052. [PMID: 36237655 PMCID: PMC9528716 DOI: 10.26603/001c.38327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cervical (neck) strengthening has been proposed as an important factor in concussion prevention. The purpose of the study was to determine if a six-week cervical strengthening program affected neurocognition and purposeful soccer heading biomechanics. The hypothesis was that the neck strengthening program would improve strength, maintain neurocognition, and alter purposeful soccer heading biomechanics. Study Design Randomized controlled trial. Methods Twenty collegiate soccer athletes (8 males, 12 females, age=20.15±1.35 years, height=171.67±9.01 cm, mass=70.56±11.03 kg) volunteered to participate. Time (pre, post) and group (experimental, control) served as the independent variables. Four composite scores from the CNS Vital Signs computer based neurocognitive test (CNSVS; verbal memory, visual memory, executive function, reaction time) and aspects of heading biomechanics from inertial measurement units (xPatch; peak linear acceleration, peak rotational acceleration, duration, Gadd Severity Index [GSI]) served as the dependent variables. Each athlete completed a baseline measure of neck strength (anterior neck flexors, bilateral anterolateral neck flexors, bilateral cervical rotators) and CNSVS after heading 10 soccer balls at two speeds (11.18 and 17.88 m/s) while wearing the xPatch. The experimental group completed specific cervical neck strengthening exercises twice a week for six weeks using a Shingo Imara™ cervical neck resistance apparatus while the control group did not. After six weeks, the participants completed the same heading protocol followed by measurement of the same outcome variables. The alpha value was set to p<0.05 a priori. Results The interaction between time and group was significant for visual memory (F1,17=5.16, p=0.04, η2=0.23). Interestingly, post hoc results revealed visual memory decreased for the control group from pretest (46.90±4.46) compared to posttest (43.00±4.03; mean difference=3.90, 95% CI=0.77-7.03, p=0.02). Interactions for all other dependent variables were not statistically significant (p>0.05). Conclusions The cervical neck strengthening protocol allowed maintenance of visual memory scores but did not alter other neurocognitive measures or heading biomechanics. The link between cervical neck strengthening and concussion predisposition should continue to be explored. Level of Evidence Level 1b.
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Brown DA, Leung FT, Evans K, Grant G, Hides JA. Cervical spine characteristics differ in competitive combat athletes compared with active control participants. Musculoskelet Sci Pract 2022; 61:102614. [PMID: 35763910 DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2022.102614] [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] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injury to the head and neck are common in combat sport athletes. Impairments of the cervical spine have been found in some athletes who participate in sports with high forces and collisions. There is a lack of research on the effects of combat sports on the cervical spine. OBJECTIVE The primary study aim was to investigate differences in cervical spine characteristics between combat athletes and a similarly aged active control group. The secondary aim was to investigate the relationship between symptom-based outcome measures and characteristics of the cervical spine. DESIGN Cross-sectional. METHOD 40 male adult combat sport athletes and 40 male adult control participants were recruited from 4 combat sport clubs and a university campus, Australia. Cervical spine assessments were conducted at a private physiotherapy clinic. The Neck Disability Index and the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale were used as symptom-based outcome measures. RESULTS Combat sport athletes had a reduced range of cervical motion, but greater isometric strength and endurance compared with a control group (p < 0.05). The Neck Disability Index and Post-Concussion Symptom Scale were negatively correlated with cervical spine range of motion and isometric strength, meaning that higher scores correlated with a reduction in function. CONCLUSIONS Differences were observed in characteristics of the cervical spine in combat sport athletes compared with a control group. Higher symptom-based outcome scores correlated with reduced range of motion and strength of cervical spine muscles. Further investigation to establish clinical cut-off scores for functional impairment may be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel A Brown
- School of Health Science and Social Work, 170 Kessels Rd, Nathan, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, 4111, Australia.
| | - Felix T Leung
- School of Health Science and Social Work, 170 Kessels Rd, Nathan, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, 4111, Australia.
| | - Kerrie Evans
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, 75 East Street, Lidcombe, The University of Sydney, NSW, 2141, Australia; Healthia Limited, Australia, 25 Montpelier Road, Bowen Hills, QLD, 4006, Australia.
| | - Gary Grant
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 1 Parklands Dr, Southport, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, 4215, Australia.
| | - Julie A Hides
- School of Health Science and Social Work, 170 Kessels Rd, Nathan, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, 4111, Australia.
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Covariation between formidability inferences and perceptions of men's preferred humor styles. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2022.111792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Martins TS, Pinheiro-Araujo CF, Gorla C, Florencio LL, Martins J, Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C, Oliveira AS, Bevilaqua-Grossi D. Neck Strength Evaluated With Fixed and Portable Dynamometers in Asymptomatic Individuals: Correlation, Concurrent Validity, and Agreement. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2022; 45:543-550. [PMID: 36517269 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to assess the correlation, concurrent validity, and agreement between the isometric cervical force measurements obtained with fixed and portable dynamometers in asymptomatic individuals. METHODS Fifty asymptomatic individuals performed 3 maximal isometric contractions for flexion, extension, and lateral flexion of the cervical spine using fixed and portable dynamometers. The correlation and concurrent validity for the measurements of the portable and fixed dynamometers were analyzed using Spearman's correlation coefficient and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), respectively. The agreement between the force values of the portable and fixed dynamometers was measured using the Bland-Altman method. RESULTS Isometric cervical force measurements obtained with the fixed dynamometer and portable dynamometer showed a moderately to highly significant correlation for flexion (rs = 0.74), extension (rs = 0.82), right lateral flexion (rs = 0.74), and left lateral flexion (rs = 0.68). The concurrent validity was moderate to good for all measurements (ICC2,3 = 0.67-0.80). The fixed and portable dynamometers did not agree, with a significant mean difference between the methods of 2.8 kgf (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.1-3.4 kgf) for cervical flexion, 5.3 kgf (95% CI, 4.2-6.4 kgf) for extension, and 9.1 kgf (95% CI, 0.4-2.1 kgf) for left lateral flexion. The limits of agreement were broad for all movements, with errors that varied between 61% and 77% of the mean force obtained with the fixed dynamometer. CONCLUSION The neck strength measurements obtained with the fixed and portable dynamometers demonstrated high to moderate correlation and had moderate to good comparability for asymptomatic participants. However, they did not agree in that the 2 methods did not provide equivalent measurements, and, therefore, based on these findings, the same equipment should always be used when reassessing an individual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tais S Martins
- Department of Health Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carina F Pinheiro-Araujo
- Department of Health Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Camila Gorla
- Department of Health Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lidiane L Florencio
- Department of Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine of the University of Rey Juan Carlos, Alrcorcón, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Jaqueline Martins
- Department of Health Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - César Fernández-de-Las-Peñas
- Department of Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine of the University of Rey Juan Carlos, Alrcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Anamaria S Oliveira
- Department of Health Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Débora Bevilaqua-Grossi
- Department of Health Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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Fuller C, Falvey É, Schneider K. Reliability of a neck strength test in schoolboy rugby players. Musculoskelet Sci Pract 2022; 60:102566. [PMID: 35644049 DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2022.102566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In rugby union, a bracing mechanism of the neck and trunk is normally adopted in contact situations where high linear and angular forces are produced, which may contribute to the risk for sports-related concussion (SRC). OBJECTIVES To examine the feasibility of and test-retest reliability, both inter-rater and intra-rater reliability, of a novel neck strength test in schoolboy rugby players and to summarize neck strength values for this cohort, including rugby position-specific estimates. MATERIALS AND METHODS 52 male schoolboy rugby union players completed the neck strength test protocol twice, eight days apart using a novel device. RESULTS Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) were good to excellent for test-retest reliability (range from 0.86 to 0.92) in all four directions. Intra-rater (ICCs range from 0.706 to 0.981) and inter-rater (ICCs range from 0.669 to 0.982) ranges were calculated. Significant differences were identified between forwards and backs for non-normalised force measures but no significant difference when normalised to bodyweight. The flexor:extensor ratio was 0.68 (SD 0.2) for forwards, 0.71 (SD 0.16) for backs and 0.67 (SD 0.16) for the cohort. DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION While there is limited direct evidence to support a direct link between neck strength and SRC risk at present, investigating the relationship of neck strength, stiffness and impact anticipation might be a useful direction for further research. In conclusion, we describe a portable, user-friendly and safe neck strength test with good-to-excellent test-retest reliability, and intra-, inter-rater reliability. Test-retest ICC values compare favourably to gold standard fixed-frame dynamometry and are superior to hand-held dynamometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colm Fuller
- Sports Medicine Research Department, Sports Surgery Clinic, Dublin, Ireland; College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Éanna Falvey
- Sports Medicine Research Department, Sports Surgery Clinic, Dublin, Ireland; College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; World Rugby, World Rugby House 8-10 Lower Pembroke Street, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Kathryn Schneider
- Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre and Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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D'Lauro C, Jones ER, Swope LM, Anderson MN, Broglio S, Schmidt JD. Under-representation of female athletes in research informing influential concussion consensus and position statements: an evidence review and synthesis. Br J Sports Med 2022; 56:bjsports-2021-105045. [PMID: 35851519 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2021-105045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to quantify the female athlete composition of the research data informing the most influential consensus and position statements in treating sports-related concussions. DESIGN We identified the most influential concussion consensus and position statements through citation and documented clinician use; then, we analysed the percentage of male and female athletes from each statement's cited research. DATA SOURCES We searched PubMed on 26 August 2021 with no date restrictions for English language studies using the terms 'concussion position statement' and 'concussion consensus statement.' ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES Based on each statement having multiple statement editions, documented clinician use, and substantial citation advantages, we selected the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA, 2014), International Conference on Concussion in Sport (ICCS, 2017) and the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM, 2019). We extracted all cited studies from all three papers for assessment. For each paper analysing human data, at least two authors independently recorded female athlete participant data. RESULTS A total of 171 distinct studies with human participants were cited by these three consensus and position papers and included in the female athlete analyses (93 NATA; 13 ICCS; 65 AMSSM). All three statements documented a significant under-representation of female athletes in their cited literature, relying on samples that were overall 80.1% male (NATA: 79.9%, ICCS: 87.8 %, AMSSM: 79.4%). Moreover, 40.4% of these studies include no female participants at all. CONCLUSION Female athletes are significantly under-represented in the studies guiding clinical care for sport-related concussion for a broad array of sports and exercise medicine clinicians. We recommend intentional recruitment and funding of gender diverse participants in concussion studies, suggest authorship teams reflect diverse perspectives, and encourage consensus statements note when cited data under-represent non-male athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D'Lauro
- Behavioral Science and Leadership, US Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
| | - Emily Ruth Jones
- Behavioral Science and Leadership, US Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
- Department of Health Science, Athletic Training Program, The University of Alabama System, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
| | - Lily Mc Swope
- Behavioral Science and Leadership, US Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
- F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Melissa N Anderson
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Delaware College of Arts and Sciences, Newark, Delaware, USA
- UGA Concussion Research Laboratory, 330 River Road, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Steven Broglio
- Michigan Concussion Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Julianne D Schmidt
- UGA Concussion Research Laboratory, 330 River Road, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
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Chadwick L, Sharma MJ, Madigan S, Callahan BL, Owen Yeates K. Classification Criteria and Rates of Persistent Postconcussive Symptoms in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Pediatr 2022; 246:131-137.e2. [PMID: 35358589 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2022.03.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide a systematic review of studies examining the proportion of children with persistent postconcussive symptoms (PPCS) and to examine potential moderators of prevalence. STUDY DESIGN Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials on April 16, 2020. Criteria for study inclusion were children aged <18 years with concussion or mild traumatic brain injury, operational definition of PPCS, assessment of postconcussive symptoms at least 4 weeks postinjury, sample sizes and proportion with PPCS available, and study published in English. Definition of PPCS, sample size, proportion of participants identified with PPCS, child sex and age at injury, time postinjury, premorbid symptoms, diagnosis (concussion or mild traumatic brain injury), and study publication year were extracted from each article. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RESULTS Thirteen studies, with a total of 5307 participants, were included in our analysis. The proportion of children identified with PPCS was 35.1% (weighted average; 95% CI, 26.3%-45.0%). The prevalence of PPCS was higher in older and female children who presented for care at concussion clinics, and in more recent publications. CONCLUSIONS Approximately one-third of children with concussion/mild traumatic brain injury will experience PPCS. Age, sex, and point of care could help identify children at high risk for PPCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah Chadwick
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Manu J Sharma
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sheri Madigan
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Brandy L Callahan
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Keith Owen Yeates
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Exploring Vestibular/Ocular and Cognitive Dysfunction as Prognostic Factors for Protracted Recovery in Sports-Related Concussion Patients Aged 8 to 12 Years. Clin J Sport Med 2022; 32:408-414. [PMID: 34516435 DOI: 10.1097/jsm.0000000000000975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the prognostic ability of the vestibular/ocular motor screening (VOMS), King-Devick (K-D) Test, and C3 Logix Trails A and B to identify protracted recovery from sports-related concussion (SRC) in patients aged 8 to 12 years. DESIGN Retrospective cohort analysis. SETTING Specialty pediatric sports concussion clinic. PARTICIPANTS A total of 114 youth athletes aged 8 to 12 years who were diagnosed with an SRC within 7 days of injury. INDEPENDENT VARIABLES A positive screen on the VOMS, K-D, and C3 Logix Trails A and Trails B. Combined positive screens on multiple tests (ie, 2, 3, or all 4 positive screens of 4 possible). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Recovery time in days and protracted recovery (recovery time ≥30-days) were the primary outcomes of interest. RESULTS A positive VOMS screen was associated with 1.31 greater days to SRC recovery ( P = 0.02) than a negative VOMS screen. The K-D and C3 Logix tests were not significantly associated with recovery time, nor were any combinations of tests ( P > 0.05). The VOMS demonstrated moderate prognostic ability to predict normal recovery (negative predictive value = 80.78% [95% CI = 63.73-90.95]). Overall predictive accuracy of normal versus protracted recovery was strongest when a participant screened positive on all 4 tests (Accuracy = 76.32% [95% CI = 67.45-83.78]). CONCLUSIONS The VOMS was associated with overall recovery time and proved to be a useful test to identify those who would experience a normal recovery time. Combining the 4 tests improved the prognostic accuracy of the protocol in predicting protracted versus normal recovery. These findings suggest that combining multiple, varied assessments of cognition and vestibular/ocular functions may better explain factors contributing to protracted recovery.
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Cooney NJ, Sowman P, Schilaty N, Bates N, Hewett TE, Doyle TLA. Head and Neck Characteristics as Risk Factors For and Protective Factors Against Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in Military and Sporting Populations: A Systematic Review. Sports Med 2022; 52:2221-2245. [PMID: 35522377 PMCID: PMC9388456 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-022-01683-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Investigators have proposed that various physical head and neck characteristics, such as neck strength and head and neck size, are associated with protection from mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI/concussion). OBJECTIVES To systematically review the literature and investigate potential relationships between physical head and neck characteristics and mTBI risk in athletic and military populations. METHODS A comprehensive search of seven databases was conducted: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Potential studies were systematically screened and reviewed. Studies on military and athletic cohorts were included if they assessed the relationship between physical head-neck characteristics and mTBI risk or proxy risk measures such as head impact kinematics. RESULTS The systematic search yielded a total of 11,723 original records. From these, 22 studies met our inclusion criteria (10 longitudinal, 12 cross-sectional). Relevant to our PECO (Population, Exposure, Comparator, and Outcomes) question, exposures included mTBI incidence and head impact kinematics (acceleration, velocity, displacement) for impacts during sport play and training and in controlled laboratory conditions. Outcome characteristics included head and neck size (circumference, mass, length, ratios between these measures), neck strength and endurance, and rate of force development of neck muscles. DISCUSSION We found mixed evidence for head and neck characteristics acting as risk factors for and protective factors against mTBI and increased susceptibility to head impacts. Head-neck strength and size variables were at times associated with protection against mTBI incidence and reduced impact kinematics (14/22 studies found one or more head-neck variable to be associated with protection); however, some studies did not find these relationships (8/22 studies found no significant associations or relationships). Interestingly, two studies found stronger and larger athletes were more at risk of sustaining high impacts during sport. Strength and size metrics may have some predictive power, but impact mitigation seems to be influenced by many other variables, such as behaviour, sex, and impact anticipation. A meta-analysis could not be performed due to heterogeneity in study design and reporting. CONCLUSION There is mixed evidence in the literature for the protective capacity of head and neck characteristics. We suggest field-based mTBI research in the future should include more dynamic anthropometric metrics, such as neck stiffness and response to perturbation. In addition, laboratory-based mTBI studies should aim to standardise design and reporting to help further uncover these complicated relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Cooney
- School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Paul Sowman
- School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nathan Schilaty
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Repair, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.,Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Nathaniel Bates
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Timothy E Hewett
- Hewett Global Consulting, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,Rocky Mountain Consortium for Sports Injury Research, Aspen, CO, USA
| | - Tim L A Doyle
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Nutt S, McKay MJ, Gillies L, Peek K. Neck strength and concussion prevalence in football and rugby athletes. J Sci Med Sport 2022; 25:632-638. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Poor cervical proprioception as a risk factor for concussion in professional male rugby union players. Phys Ther Sport 2022; 55:211-217. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2022.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Gallo CA, Desrochers GN, Morris GJ, Rumney CD, Sandell SJ, McDevitt JK, Langford D, Rosene JM. Sex Differences in Neck Strength Force and Activation Patterns in Collegiate Contact Sport. J Sports Sci Med 2022; 21:68-73. [PMID: 35250335 PMCID: PMC8851123 DOI: 10.52082/jssm.2022.68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess changes in cervical musculature throughout contact-heavy collegiate ice hockey practices during a regular season of NCAA Division III ice hockey teams. In this cross-sectional study, 36 (male n = 13; female n = 23) ice hockey players participated. Data were collected over 3 testing sessions (baseline; pre-practice; post-practice). Neck circumference, neck length, head-neck segment length, isometric strength and electromyography (EMG) activity for flexion and extension were assessed. Assessments were completed approximately 1h before a contact-heavy practice and 15 min after practice. For sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscles, males had significantly greater peak force and greater time to peak force versus females. For both left and right SCMs, both sexes had significantly greater peak EMG activity pre-practice versus baseline, and right (dominant side) SCM time to peak EMG activity was decreased post-practice compared to pre-practice. There were no significant differences for EMG activity of the upper trapezius musculature, over time or between sexes. Sex differences observed in SCM force and activation patterns of the dominant side SCM may contribute to head stabilization during head impacts. Our study is the first investigation to report changes in cervical muscle strength in men's and women's ice hockey players in the practical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin A Gallo
- Department of Exercise and Sport Performance, University of New England, Biddeford, Maine, United States of America
| | - Gabrielle N Desrochers
- Department of Exercise and Sport Performance, University of New England, Biddeford, Maine, United States of America
| | - Garett J Morris
- Department of Exercise and Sport Performance, University of New England, Biddeford, Maine, United States of America
| | - Chad D Rumney
- Department of Exercise and Sport Performance, University of New England, Biddeford, Maine, United States of America
| | - Sydney J Sandell
- Department of Exercise and Sport Performance, University of New England, Biddeford, Maine, United States of America
| | - Jane K McDevitt
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Dianne Langford
- Department of Neuroscience, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - John M Rosene
- Department of Exercise and Sport Performance, University of New England, Biddeford, Maine, United States of America
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Farley T, Barry E, Sylvester R, Medici AD, Wilson MG. Poor isometric neck extension strength as a risk factor for concussion in male professional Rugby Union players. Br J Sports Med 2022; 56:616-621. [PMID: 35197247 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2021-104414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Concussion is one of the highest burden injuries within professional Rugby Union ('rugby') and comes with a high health and financial cost to players and teams. Limited evidence exists as to the existence of modifiable intrinsic risk factors for concussion, leaving athletes and clinicians with few options when developing prevention strategies. OBJECTIVE To investigate whether neck strength is significantly associated with concussion incidence in professional male rugby players. METHODS 225 rugby players were assessed for neck strength at three time points throughout the 2018/2019 season using a method of isometric contraction. Associations with clinically diagnosed concussion injuries are presented as incidence rate ratios (IRRs) with 95% CIs. RESULTS Thirty concussions occurred in 29 players during the study period; a rate of 13.7 concussions per 1000 hours played. Greater neck strength was observed at mid and end of season time points versus preseason across the study population. There was a significant association between extension strength and concussion; a 10% increase for extension strength was associated with a 13% reduction in concussion rate (adjusted IRR (95% CI) 0.87 (0.78 to 0.98). No other significant associations were observed between concussion incidence and any other unique neck strength range or composite score. CONCLUSION Higher neck extension strength is associated with lower concussion rates in male rugby players. Neck strength is a modifiable intrinsic risk factor for concussion and may be an important component of a strength and conditioning regime.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theo Farley
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK .,Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health (ISEH), University College London, London, London, UK
| | - Ed Barry
- Georgia Rugby Federation, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Richard Sylvester
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health (ISEH), University College London, London, London, UK.,National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Akbar De Medici
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health (ISEH), University College London, London, London, UK
| | - Mathew G Wilson
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK.,Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health (ISEH), University College London, London, London, UK
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Yeates TM, Taylor HG, Bigler ED, Minich NM, Tang K, Cohen DM, Bacevice A, Mihalov LK, Bangert B, Zumberge NA, Yeates KO. Sex Differences in the Outcomes of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in Children Presenting to the Emergency Department. J Neurotrauma 2022; 39:93-101. [PMID: 33678004 PMCID: PMC8785718 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2020.7470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex differences after concussion have been studied largely in high school and college athletes, often without reference to comparison groups without concussion. This study sought to evaluate sex differences in outcomes among all children and adolescents presenting to the Emergency Department (ED) for either mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) or orthopedic injury (OI), regardless of mechanism of injury. The study involved a concurrent cohort, prospective study design with longitudinal follow-up. Participants were eight to 16 years old with mild TBI (n = 143) or OI (n = 73). They were recruited and completed an initial assessment at EDs at two children's hospitals. They returned for a post-acute assessment within two weeks of injury and for follow-up assessments at three and six months. Outcomes included child and parent proxy ratings of somatic and cognitive symptoms, and standardized tests of cognitive functioning and balance. Sex did not moderate group differences in balance, fluid or crystallized cognitive ability, or child or parent proxy ratings of somatic or cognitive symptoms. Both parents and children reported more somatic symptoms in girls than boys, but in both groups. Compared with the OI group, the mild TBI group showed significantly lower fluid cognitive ability at the post-acute assessment and significantly higher somatic and cognitive symptoms according to both child and parent proxy ratings across the first two weeks post-injury. The results suggest that sex does not moderate the outcomes of mild TBI in a pediatric ED population. Previous research pointing to sex differences after concussion may reflect the lack of comparison groups, as well as a focus on adolescents and young adults and sport-related concussion. Future research should investigate whether sex moderates the outcomes of pediatric mild TBI in adolescents but not in pre-adolescent children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor M. Yeates
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, Ohio, USA.,Address correspondence to: Taylor M. Yeates, MPH, Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, 3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy, Fairborn, OH 45324, USA
| | - H. Gerry Taylor
- Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital and Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Erin D. Bigler
- Deparment of Psychology and Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA
| | - Nori M. Minich
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University and Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Ken Tang
- Clinical Research Unit, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel M. Cohen
- Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital and Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Ann Bacevice
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University and Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Leslie K. Mihalov
- Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital and Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Barbara Bangert
- Departments of Radiology and Neurosurgery, University Hospitals Health System, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Keith Owen Yeates
- Departments of Psychology, Pediatrics, and Clinical Neurosciences, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, and Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Van Pelt KL, Wolff L, Campbell DE, McGinty G, Zupan M, Jackson JC. Investigation of Aerobic and Muscular Fitness and Concussion Among Service Academy Cadets at the United States Air Force Academy: Results from the CARE Consortium. Mil Med 2021; 188:usab440. [PMID: 34966923 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usab440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Concussion has become the signature injury facing the U.S. military. However, little is understood about the relationship between military fitness and concussion recovery. The current study examined the recoveries of cadets at a U.S. Service Academy to determine whether preinjury physical fitness improved recovery and whether recovery was associated with post-injury physical fitness measures. METHODS Participants were enrolled in a longitudinal study of concussion. Aerobic Fitness Test (AFT) and Physical Fitness Test (PFT) data were used to estimate cadet fitness. Survival analysis evaluated significant estimators of concussion recovery time. Linear regression models were used to explore the relationship between recovery duration and change in physical fitness scores. RESULTS Between 2014 and 2017, 307 (n = 70; 22.80% Women) cadets who had sustained a concussion were enrolled. Preinjury physical fitness was not significantly associated with recovery duration (P > .05). Men and intercollegiate cadets took fewer days to reach recovery milestones. Compared to women, men had greater decrements in the Aerobic Fitness Test total score (P < .05) and increased 1.5-mile time postconcussion (P < .05). Women had greater decreases in push-ups postconcussion compared to males (P < .05). There was a trend for a negative association between days until asymptomatic and change in the Physical Fitness Test score (P = .07). CONCLUSION Preconcussion physical fitness levels do not appear to impact concussion recovery time among a highly physically fit cohort. Possible methods to reduce the effect of symptom duration on strength-related physical fitness should be investigated along with evaluating reductions in strength as a possible mechanism for postconcussion injury risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn L Van Pelt
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
| | - Laura Wolff
- United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO 80840, USA
| | | | - Gerald McGinty
- United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO 80840, USA
| | - Michael Zupan
- United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO 80840, USA
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O'Halloran P, Goggins L, Peirce N. Observable player behaviours and playing performance following helmet strikes in elite cricket. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2021; 7:e001128. [PMID: 34950503 PMCID: PMC8650467 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2021-001128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Investigate the observable player behaviours and features of both concussive (HS-C) and non-concussive (HS-NC) helmet strikes and describe their impact on playing performance. METHODS Elite male cricketers sustaining helmet strikes between the 2016 and 2018 seasons were identified by the England and Wales Cricket Board. Medical records identified players sustaining a concussion and those in whom concussion was excluded. Retrospective cohort analysis was performed on batting and bowling performance data available for these players in the 2 years prior to and 3 months post helmet strike. Video analysis of available incidents was conducted to describe the characteristics of the helmet strike and subsequent observable player behaviours. The HS-C and HS-NC cohorts were compared. RESULTS Data were available for 194 helmet strikes. 56 (29%) resulted in concussion. No significant differences were seen in playing performance in the 3 months post concussive helmet strike. However, a significant decline in batting performance was seen in this period in the HS-NC group (p<0.001).Video features signifying motor incoordination were most useful in identifying concussion post helmet strike, however, typical features suggesting transient loss of consciousness were not seen. Features such as a longer duration pause prior to the batsman resuming play and the level of concern shown by other players were also useful features. CONCLUSION HS-NC may be more significant for player performance than previously thought. Guidance for using video replay to identify concussion in cricket may need to be modified when compared with other field sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick O'Halloran
- Marker Diagnostics UK Ltd, Birmingham, UK
- Musculoskeletal Medicine, Royal Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Luke Goggins
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Nicholas Peirce
- Science and Medicine, England and Wales Cricket Board, Loughborough, UK
- National Centre for Sports Medicine, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
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Müller C, Zentgraf K. Neck and Trunk Strength Training to Mitigate Head Acceleration in Youth Soccer Players. J Strength Cond Res 2021; 35:S81-S89. [PMID: 33065700 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000003822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carsten Müller
- Institute of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.,University Sports, University of Münster, Münster, Germany; and
| | - Karen Zentgraf
- Department of Movement Science and Training in Sports, Institute of Sport Sciences, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
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