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Neck Strength Is Not a Protective Factor for Lower Repetitive Head Impact Exposure in Law Enforcement Cadets
Carly R Smith1,2, Samantha N DeAngleo1,2, Enora Le Flao1,3
1School of Health and Rehabilitation Science, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States.
Military Medicine
|September 23, 2025
Summary
Neck strength did not reduce head acceleration events (HAEs) in law enforcement cadets (LECs). Further research should explore other factors to mitigate HAE exposure during training.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Occupational Health
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Law enforcement cadets (LECs) experience head acceleration events (HAEs) during occupational combat training.
- Previous research suggests neck strength may mitigate HAE exposure, but findings vary across populations and scenarios.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between baseline neck strength and HAE exposure in LECs during training.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, observational study involving 28 civilian LECs.
- Isometric neck strength was measured using a handheld dynamometer.
- Head acceleration events (HAEs) >5g were recorded using instrumented mouthguards.
Main Results:
- No significant association was found between neck strength or girth and HAEs when controlling for sex.
- Male LECs exhibited greater neck strength and girth than female LECs.
- Increased neck girth was paradoxically associated with greater HAE exposure.
Conclusions:
- Neck strength may not be a primary target for reducing HAE exposure in LECs.
- Future research should identify alternative risk or protective factors.
- Focusing on other factors could enhance the health and well-being of LECs during training.
