Cervical Strengthening and Concussions Sports concussions are commonly seen and can have many short and potentially long term health implications.
Cervical Strengthening and Concussions Sports concussions are commonly seen and can have many short and potentially long term health implications. Estimates are that there are 3.8 million sports related concussions in the US per year. As providers, we are always striving to find anything to modify and decrease the risk of sports related concussions.
There has been a recent interest in neck strength and concussion risk. The thought process is that stronger neck muscles have the capacity to absorb more force during collisions, which could lead to less force being sent to the brain. However, it is not just brute strength that is important, but also cervical spine proprioception, which involves the sensing of joint position and may mitigate forces to the brain.
There is also heterogeneity in studies looking at neck strength and concussion because some studies measure isometric strength while others evaluate strength dynamically. Example of isometric strength testing In an article published in November 2024 in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, the researchers looked at neck strength deficit in rugby players as a risk factor for a concussion. Their results found that in players with neck extension strength less than 3.7 N/kg, there was three times greater odds of sustaining a concussion during the season.
Further studies support the finding that greater flexion forces are found in concussed athletes compared to control groups. A confound in studies looking at concussions and neck strength involves being aware of imminent contact verse being unaware. An athlete who is hit without expecting contact will not have fired their cervical muscles to brace themselves.
Example of cervical spine proprioception joint position error test Another study regarding cervical strength and concussion risk was published in Musculoskeletal Science & Practice. In this study, they used cervical spine endurance as their measure of cervical strength to predict risk of concussion. To do so, they used the deep neck flexor endurance test (DNFET) protocol.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to cervical strength and concussions, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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