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McCausland K, Thomas E, Bullen J, Hill-Wall T, Norman R, Cowen G. Heads up on concussion: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' knowledge and understanding of mild traumatic brain injury. Health Promot J Austr 2024. [PMID: 38993014 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
ISSUE ADDRESSED Concussion awareness and knowledge among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples residing in Perth, Western Australia and factors preventing presentation at a health service for assessment after such an injury. METHODS Qualitative study with participants aged between 18 and 65 years. Recruitment was by Facebook advertising and snowball sampling. A semi-structured topic yarning guide was used to guide conversations through 1:1, multi-person or group yarns. Yarns were audio-recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed. RESULTS Twenty-four participants were recruited. A good knowledge of modes of concussion injury was identified in these participants. However, they identified difficulty differentiating this injury from other injuries or medical conditions. Multiple factors contributed to a reluctance to seek assessment and further management of a potential concussion. Multiple strategies to enhance education and presentation for assessment were suggested by participants. CONCLUSIONS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-owned and led concussion education is the first step in enhancing understanding of this condition. Education must be coupled with improvements in the cultural safety of healthcare services, as without this, patients will continue to fail to present for assessment and management. SO WHAT?: It is recommended that concussion education focuses on the differentiation of concussion as a diagnosis from other injuries. Information regarding where and when to seek medical assessment is recommended, and this must be in a culturally safe environment. Typical recovery and potential sequelae must be explored, in programs led and devised by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples engaged with the community for which the education is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kahlia McCausland
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Thomas
- Centre for Clinical Research Excellence, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Division of Surgery, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jonathan Bullen
- Curtin enABle Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Trish Hill-Wall
- Moorditj Yorga Scholarship Program, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Richard Norman
- Curtin enABle Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Gill Cowen
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Salmon D, Badenhorst M, Clark B, Walters S, Sullivan SJ, Sole G. Unintended consequences - A qualitative exploration of baseline testing in community rugby concussion management. J Sci Med Sport 2024:S1440-2440(24)00152-X. [PMID: 38811276 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2024.05.003] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Understanding key stakeholders' perceptions around the value of baseline testing, as well as barriers or facilitators experienced as part of the process, may assist with the decision-making process of whether to implement baseline testing in community sport. This study explored coaches', players' and physiotherapists' perceptions of the perceived value, barriers and facilitators of baseline testing as part of New Zealand Rugby's (NZR) community concussion initiative. DESIGN The study employed a pragmatic, qualitative descriptive design. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were used to explore participants' perceptions. In total, 73 individual interviews were conducted. The sample consisted of 36 players, 13 coaches and 24 physiotherapists involved in NZR's concussion management pathway. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS In terms of perceived value, baseline testing was reported to play a role in i) facilitating a positive concussion culture; ii) positive perceptions of rugby and player safety and iii) enhancing concussion management as part of the pathway. Barriers and facilitators of the baseline testing process included i) stakeholder buy-in as critical driver of the process and ii) contextual and operational factors. Although contextual and operational challenges exist, these participants, as key stakeholders in the process, perceived the value of baseline testing to be more important than the barriers experienced. CONCLUSIONS The value of baseline testing extends beyond concussion assessment and management, by enhancing community concussion awareness, attitudes and player safety. The findings of this study may assist in the decision-making process around inclusion of pre-season baseline testing in community rugby.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marelise Badenhorst
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, School of Sport and Recreation, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand.
| | - Brooke Clark
- Centre for Health, Activity and Rehabilitation Research, School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago, New Zealand
| | - Simon Walters
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, School of Sport and Recreation, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
| | | | - Gisela Sole
- Centre for Health, Activity and Rehabilitation Research, School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago, New Zealand
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Shafik A, Lota KS, Mifsud D, Bennett P, Rosenbloom C, Okholm Kryger K, Carmody S, Power J. Sport-related concussion knowledge and attitudes of staff working in English elite women's football: a survey-based study. SCI MED FOOTBALL 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38661312 DOI: 10.1080/24733938.2024.2339497] [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] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sport-related concussion (SRC) remains an injury of concern in sport, including football(soccer). There has been little investigation into SRC knowledge and attitudes of support staff working in the professional setting. METHODS An amended version of the Rosenbaum Concussion Knowledge and Attitudes Survey(RoCKAS) was distributed online to coaching staff, and medical and performance staff, working at clubs in the English Football Association Women's SuperLeague (WSL) and Championship. Completion of the survey generated two scores: concussion knowledge index (CKI) and concussion attitudes index (CAI). RESULTS Sixty-three completed surveys were returned. Eighteen respondents were coaching staff, and 45 were medical and performance staff. The median CKI in medical and performance staff was significantly greater than in coaching staff. There was no significant difference in CAIbetween coaching staff and medical and performance staff. There was no correlation between CKI and CAI across all staff. CONCLUSION Medical and performance staff working in elite women's football have greater knowledge of SRC than coaching staff. However, this does not always translate into safe behaviours on the field. Education should continue to be mandated across the professional game amongst support staff in order to maximise player welfare and enhance injury outcomes, whilst also reinforcing present SRC guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Shafik
- Department of Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
- Sport and Exercise Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Kabir Singh Lota
- Centre for Sports and Exercise Medicine, Queen Mary, University of London, London, UK
| | - Daniela Mifsud
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Education, University of South Wales, Pontypridd, Wales
| | - Pippa Bennett
- Medical Department, The Football Association, Needwood, Burton-Upon-Trent, UK
| | - Craig Rosenbloom
- Centre for Sports and Exercise Medicine, Queen Mary, University of London, London, UK
| | - Katrine Okholm Kryger
- Centre for Sports and Exercise Medicine, Queen Mary, University of London, London, UK
- Faculty of Sport, Health and Applied Science, St Mary's University Twickenham, London, UK
| | - Sean Carmody
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jonathan Power
- Sport and Exercise Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Medical Department, Liverpool Football Club, Liverpool, UK
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Oxford SW, Clarke ND, Dobbin N. A international cross-sectional study examining knowledge and attitudes towards sport-related concussion in Touch. Phys Ther Sport 2024; 66:25-30. [PMID: 38245972 DOI: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2024.01.002] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the current level of knowledge and attitudes towards sport-related concussion (SRC) amongst key stakeholders in touch rugby. DESIGN An international cross-sectional study. Participants n = 141 (male, n = 88; female, n = 53) from 15 Touch Associations. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Online questionnaire including non-validated sections captured participant characteristics, first aid training, previous concussion, awareness of SRC guidelines, combined with Rosenbaum Concussion Knowledge and Attitudes Survey. Distributed online to Touch athletes internationally. Concussion knowledge index (CKI) and attitude index (CAI) scores were calculated. A linear regression was performed to determine whether awareness of concussion, previous concussion and role affected CKI and CAI scores. RESULTS Median CKI and CAI scores were 21 ± 2.0 and 67 ± 6.3, respectively, across all key stakeholders. 39% of participants reported a previous SRC and 32% of respondents were aware of concussion guidelines form their Association. Regression analysis showed minimal influence of key contextual information on CKI and CAI. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that key stakeholders in Touch have high to very high knowledge and safe attitudes towards SRC. However, there were some areas where further improvement could be targeted by those involved in Touch such as individual associations at the direction of the sport's governing body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel W Oxford
- Centre for Physical Activity Sport And, Exercise Science, Institute for Health and Wellbeing, Coventry University, Priory Street, Coventry, CV1 5FB, UK.
| | - Neil D Clarke
- College of Life Sciences, Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences, Birmingham City University, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B153TN, UK
| | - Nick Dobbin
- Department of Health Professions, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, M15 6GX, UK
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Salmon DM, Chua J, Brown JC, Clacy A, Kerr ZY, Walters S, Keung S, Sullivan SJ, Register-Mihalik J, Whatman C, Sole G, Badenhorst M. Quest for clarity: investigating concussion-related responsibilities across the New Zealand Rugby Community System. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2023; 9:e001722. [PMID: 37860152 PMCID: PMC10582854 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2023-001722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a growing concern around concussions in rugby union, at all levels of the game. These concerns highlight the need to better manage and care for players. However, consistency around concussion-related responsibilities of stakeholders across the community rugby system remains challenging. Taking a systems thinking approach, this pragmatic, qualitative descriptive study explored key stakeholder groups within New Zealand's community rugby system's perceptions of their own and others' concussion-related responsibilities. Participants included players from schools and clubs, coaches, parents, team leads and representatives from four provincial unions. A total of 155 participants (67 females and 88 males) were included in the study. Focus groups and individual interviews were conducted. Thematic content analysis was used to analyse data. Thirty concussion-related responsibilities were identified. These responsibilities were contained within four themes: (1) policies and support (responsibilities which influence policy, infrastructure, human or financial resources); (2) rugby culture and general management (responsibilities impacting players' welfare and safety, attitudes and behaviour, including education, injury reporting and communication); (3) individual capabilities (responsibilities demonstrating knowledge and confidence managing concussion, leadership or role/task shifting) and (4) intervention following a suspected concussion (immediate responsibilities as a consequence of a suspected concussion). The need for role clarity was a prominent finding across themes. Additionally, injury management initiatives should prioritise communication between stakeholders and consider task-shifting opportunities for stakeholders with multiple responsibilities. How concussions will realistically be managed in a real-world sports setting and by whom needs to be clearly defined and accepted by each stakeholder group. A 'framework of responsibilities' may act as a starting point for discussion within different individual community rugby contexts on how these responsibilities translate to their context and how these responsibilities can be approached and assigned among available stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Salmon
- Safety and Welfare, New Zealand Rugby, Wellington, New Zealand
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jason Chua
- Safety and Welfare, New Zealand Rugby, Wellington, New Zealand
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - James C Brown
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Institute of Sport and Exercise Medicine, Department of Exercise, Sport and Lifestyle Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Amanda Clacy
- School of Law & Society, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, Queensland, Australia
| | - Zachary Yukio Kerr
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Simon Walters
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sierra Keung
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - S John Sullivan
- Safety and Welfare, New Zealand Rugby, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Johna Register-Mihalik
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Chris Whatman
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Gisela Sole
- School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago - Dunedin Campus, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Marelise Badenhorst
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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Bazo M, Arpone M, Baioccato V, Ermolao A, Gregori D, Da Dalt L, Bressan S. Concussion Knowledge and Self-Reported Behaviors in Youth Rugby Players and Their Coaches: A Population-Wide Cross-Sectional Survey. Clin J Sport Med 2023; 33:541-551. [PMID: 37185576 DOI: 10.1097/jsm.0000000000001154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate concussion knowledge and self-reported behaviors in Italian youth rugby players and their coaches. To investigate predictors of lower concussion knowledge and association between athletes' self-reported knowledge and behavior. DESIGN Cross-sectional, population-wide, survey study. SETTING All rugby clubs (n = 52) of the Veneto region (Italy). PARTICIPANTS Players and coaches of all under 15, 17 and 19 teams. Overall, 1719 athlete surveys (92.2% male; response rate, 71.1%) and 235 coach surveys (93.6% male; response rate, 93.2%) were eligible for analysis. INTERVENTION Surveys circulated from September 20 to December 13, 2021. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Knowledge scores were reported as a percentage of correct answers. Descriptive statistics were reported for all answers. The primary outcomes were concussion knowledge and self-reported behaviors. The secondary outcomes were the association between knowledge and participant individual factors and self-reported behaviors. RESULTS Median knowledge score for athletes was 55% (IQR: 44-67) and for coaches was 60% (IQR: 52.5-69). Only 33.3% of athletes and 40% of coaches were aware of an increased risk of a second concussion after sustaining one. Athletes who had never heard of the word concussion (effect: -9.31; SE: 1.35, 95% CI: -12.0 to -6.7; P < 0.0001) and coaches with longer coaching experience (effect: -4.35; SE: 2.0, 95% CI: -8.29 to -0.41; P < 0.03) reported lower knowledge scores. There was no statistical association between knowledge scores and athlete self-reported behavior. CONCLUSION Athletes and coaches had a similar level of concussion knowledge. Knowledge score of athletes did not predict self-reported behaviors. Although enhanced concussion education should be undertaken, interventions to ensure appropriate concussion reporting behaviors are also required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Bazo
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Marta Arpone
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Veronica Baioccato
- Sport and Exercise Medicine Division, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; and
| | - Andrea Ermolao
- Sport and Exercise Medicine Division, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; and
| | - Dario Gregori
- Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, and Vascular Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Liviana Da Dalt
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Silvia Bressan
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Olanrewaju O, Rashid H, Dobbin N. A cross-sectional study examining Nigerian footballers' knowledge and attitudes towards sport-related concussion and associated contextual factors. BRAIN IMPAIR 2023; 24:424-440. [PMID: 38167186 DOI: 10.1017/brimp.2022.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine Nigerian footballers' knowledge and attitudes towards sport-related concussion (SRC) and associated contextual factors. METHODS A cross-sectional study design was used with an online questionnaire distributed to Nigerian footballers affiliated with a registered team. The questionnaire included demographic information and the Rosenbaum Concussion Knowledge and Attitudes Survey (RoCKAS-ST). The concussion knowledge index (CKI, 0-25) and attitude index (CAI, 15-75) were calculated. The association between various contextual factors with "high" knowledge and attitude were determined. RESULTS A total of 331 participants completed the questionnaire from 10 football clubs. Mean CKI and CAI scores were 14.0 ± 3.0 (56.2 ± 13.2%) and 54.5 ± 9.4 (72.6 ± 12.5%), respectively, and the association between scores was considered large (r = 0.530; 28%). A small proportion (n = 25; 7.6%) of participants reported a previous diagnosis of an SRC, with a further 40 (12.1%) suspecting they have suffered SRC. Thirty-five participants (10.6%) reported sustaining a SRC but did not seek medical help. Results indicated that men were at 4.8 times greater odds of having a "high[er]" CKI than women, and that those with 5-10 years playing experience had lower odds of a "high" CKI than those with >10 years' experience. Men had 7 times greater odds of having a "high" CAI than women. CONCLUSION The results of this study suggest that Nigerian footballers have a moderate level of SRC knowledge, satisfactory symptom recognition, and high SRC attitudes. Those working with Nigerian football may consider these findings when seeking strategies to improve concussion knowledge, potentially by improving attitudes and considering sex and playing experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwaseyi Olanrewaju
- Department of Health Professions, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Haroon Rashid
- Department of Health Professions, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, UK
| | - Nick Dobbin
- Department of Health Professions, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
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Henley S, Andrews K, Kabaliuk N, Draper N. Soft-shell headgear in rugby union: a systematic review of published studies. SPORT SCIENCES FOR HEALTH 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s11332-023-01058-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
To review the rate of soft-shell headgear use in rugby union, consumer knowledge of the protection potential of soft-shell headgear, incidence of concussion reported in rugby headgear studies, and the capacity of soft-shell headgear to reduce acceleration impact forces.
Design
A systematic search was conducted in July and August 2021 using the databases SPORT Discus, PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL (EBSCO), Scopus, and Science Direct. The review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The protocol for this systematic review was registered on PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42021239595).
Outcome measures
Rates of headgear use, reports of estimated protection of headgear against head injury, incidence of concussion and magnitude of impact collisions with vs. without headgear, impact attenuation of headgear in lab studies.
Results
Eighteen studies were identified as eligible: qualitative (N = 4), field (N = 7), and lab (N = 7). Qualitative studies showed low rates of headgear use and varying understanding of the protection afforded by headgear. Field studies showed negligible association of headgear use with reduced impact magnitude in headgear vs. non-headgear cohorts. Lab studies showed increased energy attenuation for thicker headgear material, poorer performance of headgear after repetitive impacts and increased drop heights, and promising recent results with headgear composed of viscoelastic polymers.
Conclusions
Rates of adoption of soft-shell headgear remain low in rugby and any association between its use and reduction in acceleration impact forces remains unclear. Lab results indicating improved impact attenuation need to be validated in the field. Further headgear-related research is needed with youth and female rugby players.
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Piggin J, Batten J, Parry K, Anderson E, White AJ. Compulsory collisions and corporate interests in school rugby: challenging distortions in the framing of childhood injury. Inj Prev 2023; 29:79-84. [PMID: 36376056 DOI: 10.1136/ip-2022-044775] [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: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This article examines how 'framing' is used to resist a proposal to remove rugby tackling from UK schools. It focuses on rugby tackling for UK school children, which is often a compulsory part of many schools' curricula. Specifically, we explore the importance of framing in how the problem is described in various academic publications, how ideas about risk are articulated and how advocates themselves are represented. We show how the corporate interests of rugby governing bodies can become entangled with distortions about injury prevention. These distortions (or framing practices) include omitting arguments, conflating arguments, changing the argument, misrepresenting advocacy positions and skewing advocate identities. Next, the article demonstrates how a combination of recent advocacy, political interventions, research and cultural shifts appears to be changing perceptions about the risks associated with rugby tackling for children in school settings. In conclusion, we argue that while framing can be a useful strategy for policy advocates, there is value in paying attention to how framing is used by different stakeholder groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe Piggin
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire, UK
| | - John Batten
- School of Sport, Health and Community, Winchester University, Winchester, UK
| | - Keith Parry
- Department of Sport and Event Management, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, UK
| | - Eric Anderson
- School of Sport, Health and Community, University of Winchester, Winchester, Hampshire, UK
| | - Adam J White
- Sport, Health Science and Social Work, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
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Suzuki K, Nagai S, Nishida S, Iwai K, Takemura M. Reasons for the Reporting Behavior of Japanese Collegiate Rugby Union Players Regarding Suspected Concussion Symptoms: A Propensity Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2569. [PMID: 36767935 PMCID: PMC9915167 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
While previous research has identified the reasons for the concussion-reporting behavior of rugby union players, the influence of confounding factors such as concussion experience, education, and knowledge of concussion symptoms, any of which may have influenced the results, has not been considered. This study aimed to clarify the reasons for the reporting behavior of college rugby union players regarding suspected concussion symptoms by adjusting for confounding factors using the propensity score. A questionnaire about both concussion knowledge and concussion-reporting behavior was administered to 240 collegiate rugby union players. Of the 208 (86.7%) valid respondents to the questionnaire, 196 (94.2%) had experienced any one symptom of a suspected concussion, such as headache, at least once, and 137 (65.9%) reported symptoms to someone else. This study's results revealed two important reasons for reporting symptoms: (1) the willingness of players to report experienced symptoms to someone else, along with realizing a concussion, and (2) the willingness of players to report suspected concussion symptoms, despite the absence of a doctor or trainer. These results suggest that providing educational opportunities to recognize suspected concussion symptoms and establishing a team culture of reporting physical problems to someone else is important for improving concussion-reporting behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keita Suzuki
- Faculty of Health and Sports, Nagoya Gakuin University, 1350 Kamishinano, Seto, Aichi 480-1298, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nagai
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Tsukuba International University, 6-8-33 Manabe, Tsuchiura, Ibaraki 300-0051, Japan
| | - Satoru Nishida
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Ryutsu Keizai University, 120 Hirahata, Ryugasaki, Ibaraki 301-8555, Japan
| | - Koichi Iwai
- Center for Humanities and Sciences, Ibaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, 4669-2 Ami, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki 300-0394, Japan
| | - Masahiro Takemura
- Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8574, Japan
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11
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Anderson D, Cathcart J, Kerr D, Moore I, Hislop M, Wilson I. An investigation of coaches' awareness of injury in elite adolescent rugby union in Northern Irish schools - A qualitative study. Phys Ther Sport 2022; 57:17-25. [PMID: 35849980 DOI: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2022.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the decision-making processes employed by schools' Rugby coaches in the management of injured players and to explore the factors that influenced those decisions. A secondary objective was to gauge interest in an education focused toolkit for schools' Rugby coaches. DESIGN A qualitative study using one-to-one online interviews. SETTING Schools who compete in the Ulster Schools' Cup Rugby competition. PARTICIPANTS Eleven Rugby union coaches from four post primary schools. OUTCOME MEASURES A thematic analysis approach was used to examine the factors that influence schools' Rugby coaches' decision-making processes in the management of injured players. RESULTS Findings suggest coaches are influenced in their decision making by four primary factors: their experience and learning, their relationships with other stakeholders, their knowledge and understanding of the roles and responsibilities of medical staff, healthcare and health fitness professionals, and resources available to them. CONCLUSIONS Schools' Rugby coaches play a significant role in the supervision of injured adolescent Rugby players, often drawing from their playing and coaching experiences. Schools retain, or recommend the services, of healthcare professionals (HCPs) and health and fitness professionals (HFPs). The role of these healthcare and health and fitness professionals, along with their qualifications and experience is not fully understood by coaches. Coaches acknowledge that there is a need for further training and would welcome education initiatives aimed at increasing awareness of musculoskeletal injury in schoolboy Rugby players.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Anderson
- Life and Health Sciences, Ulster University, Jordanstown Campus, Newtownabbey, United Kingdom.
| | - John Cathcart
- Institute of Nursing and Health Research, School of Health Sciences, Ulster University, Jordanstown Campus, Newtownabbey, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Kerr
- Institute of Nursing and Health Research, School of Health Sciences, Ulster University, Jordanstown Campus, Newtownabbey, United Kingdom
| | - Isabel Moore
- School of Sport and Health, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Mike Hislop
- Player Welfare and Rugby Services Department, World Rugby, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Iseult Wilson
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
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12
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Salmon DM, Chua J, Sullivan SJ, Whatman C, Brown J, Register-Mihalik J, Murphy I, Walters S, Clacy A, Sole G, Kerr ZY, Rasmussen K, England M. Sport concussion assessment in New Zealand high school rugby players: a collaborative approach to the challenges faced in primary care. Brain Inj 2022; 36:258-270. [PMID: 35143350 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2022.2033839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
PRIMARY OBJECTIVE To describe the collaborative development of a New Zealand Rugby Concussion Assessment (NZRCA) for primary care and to provide normative baseline data from a representative group of high school rugby players. METHODS This study, conducted over the 2018 and 2019 community rugby season where players were baseline tested during the pre- or start of season period. RESULTS Data were collected from 1428 players (males n = 1121, females n = 307) with a mean age of 15.9 ± 1.4 years. The mean ± SD symptom severity score was 11.3 ± 8.6, the mean number of endorsed symptoms was 8.5 ± 5.3 and the percentage feeling "normal" was 80.2 ± 15.3%. Only 5.3% of players reported no symptoms at baseline. The most common reported were: 'distracted easily' (72.5%), 'forgetful' (68.5%), and 'often tired' (62.6%). None of the participants achieved a perfect score for the SAC50. The majority of participants (89.7%) passed the tandem gait test with a time of 12.2 ± 1.7 seconds. Age, gender, and ethnicity were associated with NZRCA performance; albeit weakly. CONCLUSION This study provides normative reference values for high-school rugby players. These data will aid healthcare providers in their identification of suspected concussion in the absence of individualized baselines.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jason Chua
- New Zealand Rugby, Wellington, New Zealand
| | | | - Chris Whatman
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, School of Sport and Recreation, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - James Brown
- The Institute of Sport and Exercise Medicine, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Johna Register-Mihalik
- Matthew Gfeller Sport-Related Traumatic Brain Injury Research Center, Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Injury Prevention Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ian Murphy
- New Zealand Rugby, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Simon Walters
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, School of Sport and Recreation, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Amanda Clacy
- School of Law & Society, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, Australia
| | - Gisela Sole
- Centre of Health, Activity, Rehabilitation Research, School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Zachary Y Kerr
- Matthew Gfeller Sport-Related Traumatic Brain Injury Research Center, Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Injury Prevention Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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