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Updated: May 7, 2026
A Multi-Modal Approach to Assessing Recovery in Youth Athletes Following Concussion
Published on: September 25, 2014
A pilot study on the effects of multimodal cervical exercise training on clinical concussion risk factors in female
Brooke J Thompson1, Lauren J Lattimer1
1School of Kinesiology, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Objectives:
The primary objective of the current study was to examine whether a 7-week multi-modal cervical training intervention was effective in improving sport related concussion risk factors in female varsity athletes.
Design:
A quantitative experimental research design involving a prospective exercise intervention.
Methods:
Seventeen female athletes (age 19.5 ± 1.42 years) attended two data collection sessions (i.e., baseline and post-testing) involving assessments in anthropometrics, isometric and dynamic neck strength, and balance control. The intervention group (n = 8) participated in a seven-week multi-modal neuromuscular training program for the cervical musculature. The control group (n = 9) was not provided with external training aside from what was performed within their sports team which was not cervical spine specific.
Results:
The intervention group experienced significant improvements in neck-girth, flexor-extensor strength ratio, cervical muscular endurance, isometric and dynamic strength, and balance control.
Conclusion:
The findings suggest that the intervention was effective in improving clinical measures related to concussion risk. Prior research suggests that improved size, strength, endurance, symmetry, and postural control, improve an athlete's ability to stabilize the head. This improved stability may cause athletes to have reduced motion of the head following a concussive load, consequently reducing SRC risk but should be investigated further.
