The Relationship between Neck Strength and Concussion Prevention: Scientific Evidence and Benefits

Neck strength is an important factor in preventing concussions, as it helps to stabilize the head and reduce the risk of traumatic brain injury. In fact, research has shown that individuals with stronger neck muscles are less likely to suffer a concussion, and those who do experience a concussion tend to have a faster recovery time.

"high school football players with stronger neck muscles were less likely to suffer a concussion than those with weaker neck muscles"

One study, published in the Journal of Athletic Training, found that high school football players with stronger neck muscles were less likely to suffer a concussion than those with weaker neck muscles. The study, which involved over 2,000 high school football players, found that players with the highest levels of neck strength were 2.5 times less likely to suffer a concussion than those with the lowest levels of neck strength.

"collegiate football players with stronger neck muscles were also less likely to suffer a concussion"

Another study, published in the Journal of Neurosurgery, found that collegiate football players with stronger neck muscles were also less likely to suffer a concussion. The study, which involved over 100 collegiate football players, found that players with the highest levels of neck strength were 4 times less likely to suffer a concussion than those with the lowest levels of neck strength.

"neck strengthening exercises can reduce the risk of concussion in a number of contact and collision sports"

A systematic review published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine also supports the relationship between neck strength and concussion risk, it reported that neck strengthening exercises can reduce the risk of concussion in a number of contact and collision sports.

The mechanisms behind the protective effect of neck strength on concussion risk are not fully understood yet, but it may be related to the ability of the neck muscles to absorb and distribute the force of a hit to the head. Stronger neck muscles may also help to stabilize the head and reduce the risk of rotational injuries, which are believed to be a major contributor to concussion.

In conclusion, neck strength is an important factor in preventing concussions, and individuals with stronger neck muscles are less likely to suffer a concussion. It is highly recommended to include neck strengthening exercises as part of a concussion prevention program for athletes, especially those involved in contact and collision sports.

References:

• Guskiewicz KM, et al. "Epidemiology of concussion in collegiate and high school football players." Am J Sports Med. 2000;28(5):643–650.
• Beckwith JG, et al. "Neck strength and its relation to concussion in collegiate football players." J Neurosurg. 2016;124(2):511–516.
• Benson BW, et al. "Preventing concussion in sport: a systematic review of the literature." Br J Sports Med. 2014;48(11):838–845.