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Ward J, Haakonssen E, Parsonage J. Concussion Incidence, Mechanism, and Perspectives Among Australian Elite Surfers: Implications for Medical Support and Safety Protocols. Clin J Sport Med 2024:00042752-990000000-00231. [PMID: 39230356 DOI: 10.1097/jsm.0000000000001271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The primary objective was to investigate the incidence of concussion and the associated mechanisms of injury in elite Australian surfers. The secondary objective was to investigate the current perspectives and behaviors related to experiencing concussion in surfing. DESIGN A cross-sectional, retrospective, descriptive survey. SETTING Surfing Australia high-performance program. PARTICIPANTS Forty nationally identified elite Australian surfing athletes. INTERVENTION A retrospective survey collected information pertaining to participant demographics, concussion history, potential concussive symptoms, such as headache, neck pain, dizziness, or unusual fatigue, following a wipeout, and participants' perspectives on concussion. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Investigating concussion incidence among elite Australian surfers compared with potential undiagnosed concussive episodes. RESULTS Surfers with a history of diagnosed surfing-related concussion (DC) were compared with those with no history of a diagnosed surfing-related concussion (NDC). A total of 13 of 40 surfers had a DC, with "contact versus the water surface" identified as the primary mechanism. Both DC and NDC groups had a high frequency of concussive symptoms after a surfing wipeout with a total of 447 and 573 concussive symptom occurrences reported in the DC and NDC groups, respectively. Concern regarding the long-term impacts of concussion were reported in 25 of 40 surfers. CONCLUSIONS The number of concussive symptoms reported by surfers who had not previously been diagnosed with concussion suggests that concussion may be underreported and underdiagnosed in elite surfing. This underscores the need for increased medical support, education, and improved safety protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Ward
- Surfing Australia High-Performance Program, Casuarina, NSW, Australia; and
| | - Eric Haakonssen
- Surfing Australia High-Performance Program, Casuarina, NSW, Australia; and
| | - Joanna Parsonage
- Surfing Australia High-Performance Program, Casuarina, NSW, Australia; and
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
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Tadmor DI, Chesson L, Till K, Phillips G, Fairbank L, Brown J, Cross M, Gardner AJ, Johnston RD, Owen C, Hendricks S, Stokes KA, Jones B. Non-reporting of sport-related concussion symptoms: a cross-sectional study of community rugby league players in the UK. Inj Prev 2024:ip-2023-045108. [PMID: 39060115 DOI: 10.1136/ip-2023-045108] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Recognising and removing players with suspected sport-related concussions is crucial for community sports. OBJECTIVES Quantify rates and factors associated with non-reporting of concussion symptoms in community rugby league. METHODS Overall, 484 community rugby league players aged ≥18 years and 965 parents of rugby league players aged <18 years completed an online survey, regarding concussion history, knowledge, prevalence and reasons for non-reporting of concussion, long-term implications and perceptions of concussion. RESULTS Thirty-five percent of players aged ≥18 years and 22% of parents of players aged <18 years reported at least one concussion in the last two seasons. Forty-three percent of players aged ≥18 years and 5% of parents of players aged<18 years surveyed stated they did not report concussion-related symptoms sustained during 2020 and 2021 seasons. The two most common reasons for non-reporting of concussion symptoms were 'didn't want to be ruled out of a match' and 'didn't want to let down the team'. Players aged ≥18 years who received external coaching pressures around concussion were more likely to not report concussion symptoms. Over 40% of parents and players were concerned about the potential long-term implications. Ten percent of players aged ≥18 years and 7% of parents of players aged <18 years would encourage their family members/children to not play rugby league. CONCLUSIONS Non-reporting rates of suspected concussion symptoms in adult community players were twice as high as in professional rugby league, with similar reasons (wanting to play and not letting the team down). Engaging coaches to prioritise brain health and providing broader and appropriate education on concussion should be focused on, given the concerns reported by community players and parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Isaac Tadmor
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
| | - Lucy Chesson
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Kevin Till
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
| | - Gemma Phillips
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Hull Kingston Rovers, Hull, UK
- England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Manchester, UK
- Uno-X Mobility Professional Cycling, Oslo, Norway
| | - Laura Fairbank
- England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Manchester, UK
| | - James Brown
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Department of Exercise, Sport and Lifestyle Medicine, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Division of Physiological Sciences, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Matt Cross
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Premiership Rugby, London, UK
| | - Andrew J Gardner
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney School of Health Sciences, Discipline of Exercise and Sport Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rich D Johnston
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury and New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Cameron Owen
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Manchester, UK
| | - Sharief Hendricks
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Division of Physiological Sciences, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Keith A Stokes
- Centre for Health, and Injury & Illness Prevention in Sport, University of Bath, Bath, UK
- Rugby Football Union, Twickenham, UK
| | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Manchester, UK
- Division of Physiological Sciences, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Premiership Rugby, London, UK
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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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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Karvandi E, Helmy A, Kolias AG, Belli A, Ganau M, Gomes C, Grey M, Griffiths M, Griffiths T, Griffiths P, Holliman D, Jenkins P, Jones B, Lawrence T, McLoughlin T, McMahon C, Messahel S, Newton J, Noad R, Raymont V, Sharma K, Sylvester R, Tadmor D, Whitfield P, Wilson M, Woodberry E, Parker M, Hutchinson PJ. Specialist healthcare services for concussion/mild traumatic brain injury in England: a consensus statement using modified Delphi methodology. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e077022. [PMID: 38070886 PMCID: PMC10729241 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-077022] [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: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish a consensus on the structure and process of healthcare services for patients with concussion in England to facilitate better healthcare quality and patient outcome. DESIGN This consensus study followed the modified Delphi methodology with five phases: participant identification, item development, two rounds of voting and a meeting to finalise the consensus statements. The predefined threshold for agreement was set at ≥70%. SETTING Specialist outpatient services. PARTICIPANTS Members of the UK Head Injury Network were invited to participate. The network consists of clinical specialists in head injury practising in emergency medicine, neurology, neuropsychology, neurosurgery, paediatric medicine, rehabilitation medicine and sports and exercise medicine in England. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURE A consensus statement on the structure and process of specialist outpatient care for patients with concussion in England. RESULTS 55 items were voted on in the first round. 29 items were removed following the first voting round and 3 items were removed following the second voting round. Items were modified where appropriate. A final 18 statements reached consensus covering 3 main topics in specialist healthcare services for concussion; care pathway to structured follow-up, prognosis and measures of recovery, and provision of outpatient clinics. CONCLUSIONS This work presents statements on how the healthcare services for patients with concussion in England could be redesigned to meet their health needs. Future work will seek to implement these into the clinical pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elika Karvandi
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Adel Helmy
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Angelos G Kolias
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Antonio Belli
- Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Mario Ganau
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Clint Gomes
- Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, UK
- UK Sports Institute, Liverpool, UK
| | - Michael Grey
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Michael Griffiths
- Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Alder-Hey Children's NHS Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Timothy Griffiths
- Department of Cognitive Neurology, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
- Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Philippa Griffiths
- Sunderland & South Tyneside Community Acquired Brain Injury Service, Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Damian Holliman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Peter Jenkins
- Wessex Neuroscience Centre, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK
- Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Leeds Beckett University-Headingley Campus, Leeds, UK
- England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League Ltd, Leeds, UK
| | - Tim Lawrence
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Catherine McMahon
- Manchester Centre for Clinical Neurosciences (MCCN), Salford Royal Infirmary, Northern Care Alliance, Liverpool, UK
| | - Shrouk Messahel
- Alder Hey Children's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Joanne Newton
- Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Rupert Noad
- University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, Plymouth, UK
| | | | - Kanchan Sharma
- Department of Neurology, North Bristol NHS Trust, Westbury on Trym, UK
| | - Richard Sylvester
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, London, UK
- Institute of Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Daniel Tadmor
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Medical, Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Mark Wilson
- Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Neurosurgery, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Emma Woodberry
- Department of Neuropsychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Tadmor D, Till K, Phillips G, Brown J, Fairbank L, Hendricks S, Johnston RD, Longworth T, Stokes K, Jones B. I won't let you down; why 20% of Men's and Women's Super League players underreported suspected concussions. J Sci Med Sport 2023; 26:688-693. [PMID: 37813720 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2023.09.015] [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] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Quantify and identify factors associated with concussion underreporting in Super League rugby league players. DESIGN Cross sectional survey. METHODS During the 2022 season preseason, 422 Men's and Women's Super League players completed an online survey quantifying player demographics, rugby playing history, concussion history, prevalence of, and reasons for underreporting concussion, concussion knowledge and long-term implications and perceptions of concussion. RESULTS Overall, 20% of respondents stated they did not report concussion-related symptoms to medical staff during the 2020 and 2021 seasons. The two most common reasons for underreporting concussion were 'didn't want to be ruled out of a match' (35%) and 'didn't want to let down team' (24%). 65% of players reported an appropriate level of knowledge about concussion and potential long-term implications at the start of their senior rugby career, versus 89% now. In relation to concussion knowledge, symptoms were correctly identified on 74% of occasions. 57% of players surveyed were concerned about the potential long-term implications from concussion, and 11% of players would encourage their/family members' children to not play rugby league. CONCLUSIONS The proportion of Super League players who did not report concussion symptoms was similar to rugby league players in Australia. The main reasons for not reporting concussion appeared to be due to perceptions of what is beneficial for the team, suggesting both performance and medical staff should collectively encourage players to report concussion. A player's attitude towards concussion is potentially an individual modifiable risk factor and should be considered within the concussion management of players.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Tadmor
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, United Kingdom; Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, United Kingdom; England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, United Kingdom. https://twitter.com/danieltadmor
| | - Kevin Till
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, United Kingdom; Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, United Kingdom. https://twitter.com/ktconditioning
| | - Gemma Phillips
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, United Kingdom; England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, United Kingdom; Hull Kingston Rovers, United Kingdom
| | - James Brown
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, United Kingdom; Institute of Sport and Exercise Medicine (ISEM), Department of Exercise, Sport and Lifestyle Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa; Division of Physiological Sciences and Health through Physical Activity, Lifestyle and Sport Research Centre, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Cape Town, South Africa. https://twitter.com/jamesbrown06
| | - Laura Fairbank
- England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, United Kingdom
| | - Sharief Hendricks
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, United Kingdom; Division of Physiological Sciences and Health through Physical Activity, Lifestyle and Sport Research Centre, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Cape Town, South Africa. https://twitter.com/sharief_h
| | - Rich D Johnston
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, United Kingdom; School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Australia; Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury and New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Australian Catholic University, Australia. https://twitter.com/richjohnston88
| | - Thomas Longworth
- Sports Medicine, Eastern Suburbs Sports Medicine Centre, Australia; Medical, New South Wales Institute of Sport, Australia
| | - Keith Stokes
- Centre for Health, and Injury & Illness Prevention in Sport, University of Bath, United Kingdom; UK Collaborating Centre on Injury and Illness Prevention in Sport (UKCCIIS), University of Bath, United Kingdom; Rugby Football Union, United Kingdom. https://twitter.com/drkeithstokes
| | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, United Kingdom; England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, United Kingdom; Division of Physiological Sciences and Health through Physical Activity, Lifestyle and Sport Research Centre, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Cape Town, South Africa; School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Australia; Premiership Rugby, United Kingdom.
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6
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Mitra B, Major BP, Reyes J, Surendran N, Bain J, Giesler LP, O'Brien WT, Sorich E, Willmott C, Shultz SR, O'Brien TJ, Rosenfeld JV, McDonald SJ. MicroRNA biomarkers for diagnosis of mild traumatic brain injury and prediction of persistent symptoms: A prospective cohort study. J Clin Neurosci 2023; 115:38-42. [PMID: 37480731 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2023.07.011] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
The diagnosis of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and early identification of patients who have persistent symptoms remains challenging. Symptoms are variably reported, and tests for cognitive impairment require specific expertise. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of plasma micro-ribonucleic acid (miRNA) biomarkers to distinguish between patients with mTBI and healthy controls. A secondary aim was to assess whether miRNA biomarker levels on the day of injury could predict persistent symptoms on day 7. Injured patients presented to an adult, tertiary referral hospital emergency department and were diagnosed with isolated mTBI (n = 75). Venous blood samples were collected within 6 h of injury. Symptom severity was assessed using the Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptom Questionnaire (RPQ) on the day of injury and at 7 days post-injury. The comparator group (n = 44) were healthy controls without any injury, who had bloods sampled and symptom severity assessed at the same time-point. Patients after mTBI reported higher symptom severity and had worse cognitive performance than the control group. Plasma miR423-3p levels were significantly higher among mTBI patients acutely post-injury compared to healthy controls and provided moderate discriminative ability (AUROC 0.67; 95 %CI: 0.57-0.77). None of the assessed miRNA biomarkers predicted persistent symptoms at 7 days. Plasma miR423-3p levels measured within 6 h of injury can discriminate for mTBI compared to healthy controls, with potential utility for screening after head injury or as an adjunct to the diagnosis of mTBI. Acute plasma miRNA levels did not predict patients who reported persistent symptoms at 7 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biswadev Mitra
- Emergency & Trauma Centre, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; School of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Brendan P Major
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jonathan Reyes
- Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre (MERRC), Epworth Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Australian Football League, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nanda Surendran
- Emergency & Trauma Centre, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jesse Bain
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Lauren P Giesler
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - William T O'Brien
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Catherine Willmott
- Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre (MERRC), Epworth Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Australian Football League, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sandy R Shultz
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Health Sciences, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC, Canada
| | - Terence J O'Brien
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jeffrey V Rosenfeld
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Surgery, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Stuart J McDonald
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Wagner TD, Paul ME, Youngson LR, Levin DR. Lessons Learned on a High-Altitude Expedition to Mount Kilimanjaro. Wilderness Environ Med 2023; 34:354-360. [PMID: 37147268 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2023.03.004] [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: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
High-altitude expeditions expose teams to particular medical, environmental, and social challenges that can have unintended and severe consequences for crew members. In June 2017, the 9-d Equal Playing Field (EPF) expedition to Mount Kilimanjaro to set a world record for the highest-altitude soccer match ever played demonstrated the variety of challenges that may arise during these types of trips. This trip included a full-length soccer match at 5714 m (18,746 ft), leading to additional challenges for expedition members participating in the athletic event. The EPF medical team identified the challenges that occurred during the expedition and documented the methods used to resolve these challenges in real time. From the challenges faced during the expedition, we describe the lessons learned for future expeditions to Mount Kilimanjaro and other high-altitude environments. Challenges arose with medical tent visibility, medical disqualification, underreporting of medical events, and acute pain management, while anticipated challenges with interpersonal conflict did not occur. The rigorous preparation and anticipation by the EPF medical team prior to expedition departure may have helped mitigate this conflict as well as prevented unintended severe medical events from occurring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas D Wagner
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, NY.
| | - Megan E Paul
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | | | - Dana R Levin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY; Department of Aerospace Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX; Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
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8
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Ransom DM, Ahumada LM, Mularoni PP, Trammell TR. Longitudinal Outcomes of Cumulative Impact Exposure on Oculomotor Functioning in Professional Motorsport Drivers. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2311086. [PMID: 37129896 PMCID: PMC10155066 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.11086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Professional motorsport drivers are regularly exposed to biomechanical forces comparable with those experienced by contact and collision sport athletes, and little is known about the potential short-term and long-term neurologic sequelae. Objective To determine whether cumulative impact exposure is associated with oculomotor functioning in motorsport drivers from the INDYCAR professional open-wheel automobile racing series. Design, Setting, and Participants This is a longitudinal retrospective cohort study conducted across 3 racing seasons (2017-2019). Statistical analyses were conducted in November 2021. Data were retrieved from a secondary care setting associated with the INDYCAR series. INDYCAR series drivers who participated in 3 professional level racing seasons and were involved in at least 1 contact incident (ie, crash) in 2 of the 3 seasons were included in the study. Exposure Cumulative acceleration and deceleration forces and total contact incidents (ie, crashes) measured via accident data recorder third generation chassis and ear accelerometers. Main Outcomes and Measures Postseries oculomotor performance, including predictive saccades, vergence smooth pursuit, and optokinetic nystagmus, was measured annually with a head-mounted, clinical eye tracking system (Neurolign Dx 100). Results Thirteen drivers (mean [SD] age, 29.36 [7.82] years; all men) sustained median resultant acceleration forces of 38.15 g (observed range, 12.01-93.05 g; 95% CI, 30.62-65.81 g) across 81 crashes. A 2-way multivariate analysis of variance did not reveal a statistically significant association between ear and chassis average resultant g forces, total number of contact incidents, and racing season assessed (F9,12 = 0.955; P = .54; Wilks Λ = 0.44). Conclusions and Relevance In this cohort study of professional drivers from the INDYCAR series, there were no statistically significant associations among cumulative impact exposure, racing season assessed, and oculomotor performance. Longitudinal studies across racing seasons using multidimensional examination modalities (eg, neurocognitive testing, advanced imaging, biomarkers, and physical examination) are critical to understand potential neurological and neurobehavioral sequelae and long-term consequences of cumulative impact exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Ransom
- Division of Neuropsychology, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St Petersburg, Florida
- Institute for Brain Protection Sciences, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St Petersburg, Florida
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Luis M Ahumada
- Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St Petersburg, Florida
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - P Patrick Mularoni
- Institute for Brain Protection Sciences, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St Petersburg, Florida
- Division of Sports Medicine, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St Petersburg, Florida
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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9
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Heron N, Jones N, Cardwell C, Gomes C. 'If in Doubt, Sit Them Out': How Long to Return to Elite Cycling Competition following a Sports-Related Concussion (SRC)? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20085449. [PMID: 37107731 PMCID: PMC10138273 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20085449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A concussion or sports-related concussion (SRC) is a traumatic brain injury induced by biomechanical forces. After a SRC diagnosis is made, a concussed individual must undergo a period away from competition while they return to their baseline level of functioning. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) currently recommend a minimum of 6 days restriction from competitive cycling following a SRC but there is a growing feeling amongst those involved in brain injury research that this period is too short. Therefore, how much time should cyclists be removed from competitive sporting action following a SRC? AIMS To review the time out of competition following the diagnosis of a SRC for elite cyclists within British Cycling (BC). METHODS All medical records for elite cyclists within BC were audited for diagnoses of "concussion" or "sports-related concussions" from January 2017 until September 2022. The days out of competition following the concussion until ready to compete again (that is, returned to full training) was then calculated. All diagnoses and management of SRC were undertaken by the medical team at BC and in-keeping with current international guidelines. RESULTS Between January 2017 and September 2022, there were 88 concussions diagnosed, 54 being males and 8 in para-athletes. The median duration for time out of competition for all concussions was 16 days. There was no statistical difference between males (median 15.5 days) and females (median 17.5 days) for time out of competition (p-value 0.25). The median duration out of competition following a concussion for able-bodied athletes was 16 (80 athletes) compared to 51 days (8 athletes) in para-cyclists, which was not statistically different (p-value 0.39). CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to report SRC concussion recovery times in elite cycling, including para-athletes. Between January 2017 and September 2022, there were 88 concussions diagnosed at BC and the median duration for time out of competition for all concussions was 16 days. There was no statistically significant difference in recovery times between male and females and para- and able-bodied athletes. This data should be used to help establish minimum withdrawal times post-SRC for elite cycling participation and we call on the UCI to review this data when establishing SRC protocols for cycling, with further research required in para-cyclists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Heron
- Centre for Public Health, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT12 6BA, UK
- Medical Department, British Cycling, Manchester M11 4DQ, UK
- School of Medicine, Keele University, Staffordshire ST5 5BG, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Nigel Jones
- Medical Department, British Cycling, Manchester M11 4DQ, UK
| | | | - Clint Gomes
- Medical Department, British Cycling, Manchester M11 4DQ, UK
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Sullivan KA, Jaganathan KS, Kinmond S. Sports fans, wagering, and concussion knowledge: implications for injury nondisclosure. BRAIN IMPAIR 2023; 24:103-113. [PMID: 38167580 DOI: 10.1017/brimp.2022.2] [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: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Athletes perceive sports fans as a source of concussion nondisclosure pressure. Sports fans are exposed to injury depictions from the media that could lead them to underestimate its seriousness. This study examined the concussion knowledge of non-sports fans, sports fans, and wagering sports fans, as knowledge is a modifiable factor that can influence injury disclosure. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS A convenience sample of 443 Australian adults completed an online survey. DESIGN Cross-sectional. MAIN MEASURES Self-rated and actual concussion knowledge (the Rosenbaum Concussion Knowledge and Attitudes Survey; RoCKAS). RESULTS There was no significant difference in the concussion knowledge of self-identified sports (n = 157) and non-sports (n = 286) fans; but sports fans rated their knowledge as significantly higher than non-sports fans (p < .05). Wagering sports fans (n = 24) had significantly less concussion knowledge than non-wagering sports fans (η2 = .03, small effect). DISCUSSION Athletes who feel nondisclosure pressure from sports fans may be influenced by people with incomplete concussion knowledge, particularly wagering sports fans. Sports fans over-estimated their knowledge, and this could contribute to the nondisclosure pressure felt by athletes. Programmes to increase injury disclosure by athletes should take these factors into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen A Sullivan
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
- Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Sally Kinmond
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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Sik A, Kaveney‐Gibb B, Cooper J, Pearson J, Larsen P, Rogan A. Is the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 5th Edition a useful concussion assessment tool in head‐injured patients presenting to the emergency department? Emerg Med Australas 2022; 35:474-482. [PMID: 36529471 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.14144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Concussion is a common ED complaint, but diagnosis is challenging as there are no validated objective measures. Use of concussion tools derived from sports medicine is common, but these tools are not well validated in ED settings. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 5th Edition (SCAT5) to identify concussion in ED patients presenting following head injury. METHODS We conducted a prospective observational study of head-injured adult patients presenting to ED between March and July 2021. ED diagnosis of concussion was used as the diagnostic standard, and we assessed the diagnostic performance of the SCAT5 test and its three subsections (Standardised Assessment of Concussion (SAC), Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS) and Modified Balance Error Scoring System (mBESS)) against this. RESULTS Thirty-two head-injured participants were enrolled, 19 of whom had a discharge diagnosis of concussion, alongside 17 controls. Median time for SCAT5 testing was 21 (interquartile range 16-27) min. Fifteen (30.6%) participants were interrupted during testing. Area under the curve (AUC) (95% confidence interval) for the SAC, PCSS and mBESS were 0.51 (0.34-0.68), 0.92 (0.84-0.99) and 0.66 (0.47-0.85), respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of sections were as follows: entire SCAT5 (100.0%, 20.0%), SAC (48.1%, 60.0%), PCSS (89.7%, 85.0%) and mBESS (83.3%, 58.8%). Using PCSS alone would have identified 17 of 19 concussions. CONCLUSION The SCAT5 test had a low specificity, was long and was frequently interrupted. We suggest it is not an ideal assessment to use in ED. The PCSS score performed well and was easy to complete. It may be useful as a standalone tool to simplify ED concussion identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annabelle Sik
- Department of Surgery and Anaesthesia University of Otago Wellington New Zealand
| | - Ben Kaveney‐Gibb
- Department of Surgery and Anaesthesia University of Otago Wellington New Zealand
| | - James Cooper
- Department of Surgery and Anaesthesia University of Otago Wellington New Zealand
| | - Jake Pearson
- Department of Surgery and Anaesthesia University of Otago Wellington New Zealand
| | - Peter Larsen
- Department of Surgery and Anaesthesia University of Otago Wellington New Zealand
| | - Alice Rogan
- Department of Surgery and Anaesthesia University of Otago Wellington New Zealand
- Wellington Emergency Department Wellington Regional Hospital Wellington New Zealand
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King D, Clark T, Hume P, Hind K. Match and training injury incidence in rugby league: A systematic review, pooled analysis, and update on published studies. SPORTS MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCE 2022; 4:75-84. [PMID: 35782281 PMCID: PMC9219278 DOI: 10.1016/j.smhs.2022.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In studies reporting rugby league injuries, match injuries varied depending upon participation level. To review and update pooled data estimates for rugby league injury epidemiology and add information for participation levels in match and training environments. A systematic review and pooled analysis for published studies reporting rugby league match and training injuries. Searches were performed in the PubMed, CINHAL, ScienceDirect, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, SpringerLink, and Wiley Online databases. Studies were considered if they reported on rugby league match or training injuries between Jan 1990 to June 2021. Two authors (DK, TC) extracted the study characteristics, numerical data and assessed the article quality, by adhering to the protocol for systematic review of observational studies (MOOSE) and the STrengthening and Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) statement. The 46 studies included a combined exposure of 419,037 h and 18,783 injuries incorporating 158,003 match-hr and 15,706 match injuries (99.4 [95%CI: 97.9–101.0] per 1000 match-hr) and 264,033 training-hr and 3077 training injuries (11.8 [95%CI: 11.4–12.2] per 1000 training-hr). Of included studies, 47.9% utilised a medical attention/treatment injury definition. There was a five-fold difference in injuries for the semi-professional participation level (431.6 per 1000 match-hr) compared with professional (RR: 4.92; p < 0.001) and elite (RR: 3.77; p < 0.001) participation levels. The hooker recorded the highest pooled injury incidence (93.1 per 1000 match-hr). Compared to the 2014 analysis there was a 10-fold increase for head-neck region (RR: 10.7; p < 0.001) injury incidence, and more injuries for the ball carrier (RR: 1.1; p = 0.008) and tackler (RR: 1.2; p = 0.001). There was a three-fold decrease in injury incidence in the first half (RR: 2.9; p < 0.001) and a two-fold decrease in the second half (RR: 2.3; p < 0.001) of matches. While rugby league match and training injury incidence had decreased since 2014, the increase in head injuries, and greater injury rate at the semi-professional level, mean further injury prevention interventions are needed. Based on 46 studies, updated estimates of injury incidence for rugby league-related activities ranged from 14.6 per 1000 match-hr (Junior) to 431.6 per 1000 match-hr (Semi-Professional) participation levels for match activities and 5.3 per 1000 training-hr (Professional) to 97.1 per 1000 training-hr (Elite) participation levels for training activities.
Compared with the pooled analysis in 2014, the current analysis showed:The hooker playing position continues to have the highest match injury risk (93.1 per 1000 match-hr). The lower limb (64.5 per 1000 match-hr) continues to be the body region with the highest injury risk. The quadriceps was the most reported injury site (28.5 per 1000 match-hr). The incidence of concussion in studies reporting on rugby league match injuries increased (7.7 vs. 11.6 per 1000 match-hr); and Most concussions took 28 days to recover, which conflicts with the Concussion in Sport Consensus Statement that reported 80%–90% of all concussions recover in seven to ten days.
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Rosenbloom C, Chatterjee R, Chu W, Broman D, Okholm Kryger K. Sport-related concussion return-to-play practices of medical team staff in elite football in the United Kingdom. SCI MED FOOTBALL 2021; 6:317-324. [DOI: 10.1080/24733938.2021.1983921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Craig Rosenbloom
- The Football Association, Technical Directorate, Burton-upon-Trent, UK
- Sport and Exercise Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Robin Chatterjee
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, London, UK
- British Association of Sport and Exercise Medicine, Doncaster, UK
| | - Wing Chu
- Vita Health Group, London, UK
- Freedom Clinics, London, UK
| | - Daniel Broman
- The Football Association, Technical Directorate, Burton-upon-Trent, UK
- Isokinetic Medical Group, London, UK
| | - Katrine Okholm Kryger
- Sport and Exercise Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Health and Applied Science, St Mary’s University, London, UK
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Townsend S. "'The Tragedy of the Punch Drunk': Reading Concussion in Australian Sporting Newspapers, 1843-1954". Front Sports Act Living 2021; 3:676463. [PMID: 34337402 PMCID: PMC8319235 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2021.676463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Australian cultural attitudes toward sports related concussion (SRC) are understudied. Australia has a long history of valorising combat, collision, and contact sports, in which SRC is a common occurrence. It is therefore vital to understand how sociocultural and historical factors shape Australian attitudes toward SRC, in order to more critically evaluate the decisions made by athletes, parents, coaches, and others with regards to risk and brain injury in sport. This paper analyzed historical representations of SRC in Australian sporting newspapers between 1803 and 1954. Using distant reading, this analysis revealed four distinct periods of increased press discourse about "concussion," which were subject to interrogation via close reading. Close reading revealed that concussion was being reported in the Australian sporting press as early as 1859. Further analysis revealed critical and scientifically informed discussions about the delayed effects of concussion in 1901, systemic critiques of sporting organizations' response to concussion in 1906, and evidence of a limited concussion crisis in Australian boxing during the early 1930s. The findings of this research show that concussion was not only being reported in Australian newspapers throughout the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries but it was subject to critical and informed commentary that has striking similarities with current debates about SRC. Despite this, widespread systematic changes to Australian sport did not occur until recently. This raises important questions about the political and institutional factors that prevented a major concussion crisis from developing in Australia during the early twentieth century, and prompts us to further consider the distinguishing features that facilitated the development of the current crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Townsend
- School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Fox CM, Wu JG, Chen L, Florczyk DL. Injury Patterns in Collegiate Club Quidditch. SPORTS MEDICINE-OPEN 2021; 7:44. [PMID: 34176026 PMCID: PMC8236010 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-021-00336-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background The purpose of this study is to assess injury patterns in collegiate club quidditch athletes at a single university over three seasons. Injury data were gathered from athletic trainers that provided sideline medical coverage during competitions, the on-site athletic training center where athletes had daily access for evaluation and treatment for acute and chronic injuries, and a sports medicine physician at the on-campus student health center. Athlete exposures were estimated using available previous rosters, practice, and game schedules for the 2014–2017 quidditch seasons. Injuries were evaluated regarding the sex of the athlete, mechanism, body part injuries, and injury type. This is a retrospective descriptive epidemiology study. Results The overall injury incidence rate (IR) for collegiate club quidditch injuries was 4.55 per 1000 athlete exposures (AEs). Male athletes had an IR = 5.22 (95% CI 3.77, 7.23). Females had an IR = 3.77 (95% CI 2.49, 5.72). The most common mechanism of injury in males was collision with another athlete (36%; IR = 1.88; 95% CI 1.09, 3.24). The most common injuries were lower extremity injuries (foot, ankle, lower leg, knee, thigh, hip/groin) at 57%. The most common injury type in males was sprains at 39% (IR = 2.03; 95% CI 1.20, 3.42). The overall incidence rate for all quidditch athletes for concussions was 1.18 per 1000 AEs. Conclusions Quidditch is an increasingly popular mixed-gender collegiate club sport. This study helps identify areas for improvement in education, injury prevention, and care of athletes at the local and national levels. Concussion rates in quidditch are comparable to other contact sports and should encourage discussion to make rule changes to improve the safety of the sport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M Fox
- University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine and Truman Medical Centers, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Jonathan G Wu
- Harbor-UCLA Medical Center Department of Internal Medicine, 1000 W. Carson St, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA.
| | - Lucia Chen
- UCLA Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Dena L Florczyk
- UCLA Arthur Ashe Student Health and Wellness Center, UCLA Department of Sports Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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