Jugular vein compression collars introduction Sports-related concussion (SRC) can exert serious acute and long-term consequences on brain microstructure, function, and behavioral outcomes.
Jugular vein compression collars introduction Sports-related concussion (SRC) can exert serious acute and long-term consequences on brain microstructure, function, and behavioral outcomes. Many unanswered questions remain in the treatment of sport related concussion and many studies are ongoing in attempts to find the best preventative tools. The University of Virginia Tech has done extensive research on helmets.
Luke Kuechly, a former all pro linebacker for the Carolina Panthers, became one of the first advocates for a jugular vein compression device. Today, you may notice many athletes with these “collars.” Initial studies were performed on rats and the basis of the studies was to try and reduce “slosh.” The skull and spinal canal contains only nervous tissue, connective tissue, and fat cells and their interstitium, blood, and cerebrospinal fluid. These fluid contents do not completely fill the rigid container delimited by the skull and bony spinal canal, leaving a “reserve volume.” The change in volume inside a container for a given change in pressure is called compliance.
Increases in volume of the contents of the skull and bony spinal canal, within the range of reserve volume, occur at low container pressures. In the presence of reserve volume, as seen in a normal physiological state, acceleration to the skull can result in a differential acceleration between the skull and its contents. As a consequence, the brain and fluids collide with the inside of the skull.
Considering the semisolid properties of the mammalian brain, this effect is referred to as “slosh”. In the initial animal model, applying the collar increased intracranial volume, as indicated by an increase in ICP and IOP by 30% and 31%, respectively. In humans, safe, gentle compression of IJVs dates back to 1918 when Quenkenstedt developed a simple test to prove patency of the spinal column.
In this maneuver, a spinal needle was placed in the lumbar subdural space and then the internal jugular veins (IJVs) are compressed, causing a rise in spinal pressure. Compression of the IJV may also occur on placement of tight-fitting neck stabilization collars and has been shown to increase intracranial pressure (ICP), whereas wearing shirts with tight collars or neckties has also been shown to increase intraocular pressure (IOP). Neuroimaging studies of mTBI, including SRC, have revealed alterations in widespread white matter (WM) regions.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to jugular vein compression collars, 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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