Self-reported Concussion History and Sensorimotor Tests Predict Head/Neck Injuries
Julie A Hides1, Melinda M Franettovich Smith, M Dilani Mendis
11Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Woolloongabba, QLD, AUSTRALIA; 2Mater Back Stability Research Clinic, Mater Health Services, South Brisbane, QLD, AUSTRALIA; 3Physiotherapy Department, Mater Health Services, South Brisbane, QLD, AUSTRALIA; 4School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Physiotherapy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, AUSTRALIA; 5Victoria House Medical Imaging, Prahran, VIC, AUSTRALIA; 6School of Physiotherapy, Australian Catholic University, Banyo, QLD, AUSTRALIA; and 7Florey Institute of Neuroscience & Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, AUSTRALIA.
A history of sport-related concussion (SRC) and poor preseason sensorimotor function predict future head and neck injuries in athletes. Identifying these risk factors can help prevent injuries in collision sports.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Neurology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Sport-related concussion (SRC) is prevalent in high-impact sports.
- Previous SRC is a known risk factor for subsequent concussions.
- Subclinical deficits in neuromuscular control may persist post-concussion, increasing injury risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if a history of SRC and/or preseason sensorimotor performance predict in-season head/neck injuries.
- Investigate the relationship between sensorimotor function and injury risk in athletes.
Main Methods:
- 190 male athletes from rugby league, rugby union, and Australian Football League participated.
- Preseason assessments included SRC history and sensorimotor function tests (balance, vestibular, cervical proprioception, trunk muscle function).
- In-season head/neck injuries were recorded.
Main Results:
- 25% of players reported a prior SRC.
- 11.6% sustained head/neck injuries, with 63.6% having a prior SRC history.
- History of SRC, trunk muscle function, and cervical proprioceptive errors predicted in-season injuries. Three or more risk factors increased injury risk 14-fold.
Conclusions:
- Identified modifiable risk factors can aid preseason screening.
- Exercise programs targeting identified deficits can reduce injury risk.
- This research provides a basis for proactive injury prevention strategies in contact sports.
