ABSTRACT
Several studies have investigated the biomechanics of head impacts among various levels of American football players. Studies conducted on collegiate-level American football players have reported mean linear head acceleration values ranging from 21 to 32 g, with some of the peak accelerations reaching 173 g (Brolinson et al., 2006; Duma et al., 2005). Another study investigating these impact forces among high school American football players reported the mean linear acceleration value was approximately 25.1 g (Broglio et al., 2010). During the course of the study, 13 concussions were reported, with the highest linear acceleration value reported to be 146 g. Based on these studies and the potential long-term repercussions of traumatic brain injuries sustained from multiple football-related impacts (Gavett et al., 2011; Guskiewicz et al., 2003, 2005, 2007), a substantial amount of research and grant dollars have been used to target innovations in American football helmet design. However, American football is not the only sport at risk. Reports have shown that head injuries account for 30 per cent of all injuries sustained by cyclists, 13 per cent among football (soccer) players, 44 per cent among cricket players and 21 per cent among rugby players (Finch et al., 1998). Although research data are limited for sports such as baseball/softball, field hockey and basketball, these athletes are also at risk of head injuries. Overall, researchers estimate that 1.6–3.8 million sport-related traumatic brain injuries occur each year (Langlois et al., 2006).
