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Updated: Jan 7, 2026
A Neuroscientific Approach to the Examination of Concussions in Student-Athletes
Published on: December 8, 2014
The Relationship Between Neurocognitive Function and Concussion in Women Professional Football Players: A
Freja Fredrika Lähteenmäki1,2, Steve den Hollander3,4, Dina Christa Janse van Rensburg5
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center Location, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Objective:
To determine the neurocognitive functions of women professional football players and explore their potential connection to concussions.
Methods:
An observational cross-sectional study was conducted via electronic questionnaires. Neurocognitive function was assessed with the "CNS Vital Signs" testing tool.
Results:
In total, 68 participants performed the neurocognitive function testing. Compared with the reference population, players scored within the average range (≥90) for 11 of 12 neurocognitive domains. Motor speed was above average (SS = 111.7). Overall, no significant neurocognitive deficits were observed. Thirty-two participants (43%) reported one or more concussions, with defenders being most affected (50%). Among defenders, 64% (n = 16) have a history of one or multiple concussions. Players with a history of three concussions showed significant deficits in the simple attention domain.
Conclusion:
Professional women footballers did not show significant signs of neurocognitive function deficits. However, a history of three concussions was significantly associated with lower standard scores for the simple attention neurocognitive domain.
