The 2014 Journal of Primary Prevention recently published, “Neck Strength: A Protective Factor Reducing Risk for Concussion in High School Sports.” After looking at 51 schools in 25 states and taking anthropometric measurements on 6,704 boys and girl athletes in three sports researchers found that smaller mean neck circumference and smaller mean neck to head circumference ratio, and weaker mean overall neck strength was significantly associated with concussions.
To date prevention of concussions has focused on improving helmets, rule changes, practice restrictions, return-to-play policies and introducing helmets to sports not currently using them. The study concluded that athletes with modifiable anthropometric factors such as low neck strength can reduce their risk of concussions through a neck strengthening program.
Michigan State Spartans Getting Strong
