Evaluating A Neck Strength Protocol for Neuromuscular Indicators in Female Military College Cadets to Reduce the Incidence of Concussions
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Title: Evaluating A Neck Strength Protocol for Neuromuscular Indicators in Female Military College Cadets to Reduce the Incidence of Concussions Authors: Alexander McDaniel, Lindsey Schroeder, Kasee Hucks, Theo Versteegh The proposed presentation includes research findings from a dynamic neck strengthening training protocol implemented with female military college cadets over a full year. The primary goal of this research was to determine the efficacy of a neck strengthening protocol to increase isometric neck strength and dynamic neck strength via rate of force development using a novel dynamic neck strengthening device, the TopSpin360 tool. A secondary goal was to determine if the dynamic neck strengthening tool decreases the incidence of concussions during a full year of military cadet training. Methods The research study was approved by an institutional ethics review board (IRB) record number H21-0259 at UNCW. This research was conducted with the Citadel Military College of South Carolina’s Director of Physical Readiness. The study was conducted over a period of a full year with pre- and post-assessments of dynamic and isometric neck strength tests and concussion occurrence surveys. Assessments were conducted in January and April, respectively, and August and November of 2022. A 14-week dynamic neck strength training with the TopSpin360 tool occurred as a part of the training regime and monitored by the Citadel Physical Readiness Program. The neck strength program consisted of a warm-up: 2-sets low intensity, 40-50% rev. per minute (RPM) for 100 reps clockwise (CW) and counterclockwise (CCW). Each participant then completed 2-sets 50 reps at 90-100% Peak ROM for both directions. The primary study metrics: isometric (kgs) and dynamic neck strength values, rate-of-force developed (lbs/rev). A linear regression model was used to determine the amount of improvement assessed Jan-April & Aug-Nov. Results A total of 16 female cadets completed the study. The findings from the spring and fall Cohort demonstrated significant improvements in isometric and dynamic neck strength metrics, Jan-April: RFD 1.7+ lbs./Rev D, Iso 5-7kg D; Aug-Nov: RFD 4.6+ lbs./Rev D, Iso 3-4kg D P£0.05. This included highly significant values for incoming freshmen who had never participated in dynamic neck strengthening previously. Each cadet indicated a positive change in neck strength and overall confidence in avoiding head and neck injuries, no concussions were reported throughout the study from any training operations. Conclusions The novel dynamic neck strengthening protocol used by the Citadel cadets demonstrated significant improvements in isometric and dynamic neck strength values.
