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In Vivo Protocol of Controlled Subconcussive Head Impacts for the Validation of Field Study Data
Published on: April 18, 2019
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Quantifying Head Impact Exposure in Collegiate Women's Soccer
Jaclyn N Press1, Steven Rowson
1Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia.
Summary
This study quantified head impacts in women's soccer, finding an average of 1.86 head impacts per player per game or practice. Data from head impact sensors require careful interpretation due to collection challenges.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
- Injury Prevention
Background:
- Head impacts are a concern in soccer.
- Quantifying head impact exposure is crucial for understanding injury risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify head impact exposure in collegiate women's soccer players during the 2014 season.
- To analyze head impact data collected via sensors and video verification.
Main Methods:
- Prospective observational study involving 26 collegiate women's soccer players.
- Players were instrumented with head impact sensors; video recordings verified impacts.
- Head impact counts were analyzed by player position and impact type.
Main Results:
- Sensors recorded 17,865 accelerative events, with 8,999 classified as head impacts.
- 1,703 impacts (19%) were verified, 90% from heading the ball.
- Average head impacts per player per session was 1.86 ± 1.42, varying by position.
Conclusions:
- Head impact exposure was quantified using two methods, highlighting sensor data challenges.
- Caution is advised when interpreting head impact sensor data from on-field collection.
- Understanding head impact biomechanics is vital for player safety in soccer.
