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National Hockey League reported concussions, 1986-87 to 2001-02
1Division of Neurology, University Health Network, Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
Summary
Media-reported concussions in the National Hockey League (NHL) more than tripled in the last five years of the study period. This increase may be due to better recognition and reporting, not just player or equipment changes.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Concussions are a significant concern in contact sports like hockey.
- Understanding concussion trends is crucial for player safety and injury prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the longitudinal trend of reported concussions in the National Hockey League (NHL) from 1986-87 to 2001-02.
- To investigate factors contributing to changes in concussion rates over time.
Main Methods:
- A review of all injury reports published in The Hockey News from 1986-87 to 2001-02.
- Data extraction of reported concussions, adjusted for league size and game frequency.
Main Results:
- The reported concussion rate per 1000 games showed a significant increase from 1997-98 onwards.
- Rates rose from 4-8 per 1000 games in the early period to 25-30 per 1000 games in the final seasons.
- Significant increases were noted in the 1997-98 and 1998-99 seasons.
Conclusions:
- The reported concussion rate in the NHL more than tripled in the last five years compared to the previous decade.
- While physical factors may play a role, increased recognition and reporting are likely primary drivers of the observed increase.
- The findings highlight the importance of accurate concussion surveillance and reporting in professional sports.