Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 30, 2026
12:11
Objectively Assessing Sports Concussion Utilizing Visual Evoked Potentials
Published on: April 27, 2021
3.5K
Domain-Specific Concussion Knowledge and Reporting in United States Major League Rugby Players.
Julie M Stamm1, Katherine J Hunzinger2, Owen M Sheehy1
1Department of Kinesiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.
European Journal of Sport Science
|April 28, 2026
Summary
Major League Rugby players often hide concussions due to knowledge gaps and a desire to play. Targeted education on concussion recognition is needed to improve reporting behaviors in athletes.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- Previous research shows a disconnect between general concussion knowledge and reporting behaviors.
- Concussion knowledge has not been specifically studied in United States Major League Rugby (MLR) players.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate domain-specific concussion knowledge, concussion history, and reporting behaviors in active MLR players.
- To identify reasons for concussion nondisclosure among MLR athletes.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey design was used.
- 207 MLR athletes completed a survey assessing concussion history, knowledge, and nondisclosure reasons.
Main Results:
- 24% of MLR players reported an undisclosed concussion, citing lack of knowledge, desire to play, or team loyalty.
- Three concussion knowledge domains were identified: Immediate Management, Potential Post-Concussion Consequences, and Concussion Recognition.
- MLR players showed the least knowledge in Concussion Recognition and the most in Potential Post-Concussion Consequences.
Conclusions:
- Gaps in concussion knowledge, particularly in recognition, may influence reporting behaviors.
- Understanding domain-specific knowledge deficits can inform targeted concussion education strategies.
- Further research on domain-specific concussion knowledge in diverse athletic populations is recommended.
