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Preliminary Examination of Guardian Cap Head Impact Kinematics Using Instrumented Mouthguards
Kristen G Quigley1, Dustin Hopfe1, Madison Fenner1
1Neuromechanics Laboratory, School of Public Health, and.
Journal of Athletic Training
|September 21, 2023
Summary
Guardian Caps (GCs) did not significantly reduce head impacts in college football players. This study found no difference in head kinematics when using GCs compared to traditional helmets, suggesting they may not be effective.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
- Injury Prevention
Background:
- Guardian Caps (GCs) are popular helmet add-ons for American football players aiming to reduce head impacts.
- Despite widespread use and endorsements, empirical evidence on their effectiveness is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of Guardian Caps (GCs) on head kinematics during on-field activities.
- To compare head impact data between traditional helmets and helmets with GCs in NCAA Division I football players.
Main Methods:
- A case series study involving 25 NCAA Division I football players during the 2022 preseason.
- Instrumented mouthguards collected head kinematics data (peak linear and angular acceleration, total impacts).
- Data were compared between traditional helmets (TRAD) and helmets with GCs (GC) over 6 workouts.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant differences were found in peak linear acceleration, peak angular acceleration, or total impacts between the TRAD and GC conditions.
- These findings held true for the entire sample and for a subset of 7 players who completed all workouts.
Conclusions:
- The preliminary data suggest that Guardian Caps do not alter head kinematics during gameplay.
- GCs may not be effective in reducing the magnitude of head impacts for NCAA Division I football players.
