Concussions in Girls Sports: UW-Madison study on soft shell headgear largest in the U.S.
UW-Madison has recently conducted the largest study of it’s kind on soft shell protective headbands. The study followed nearly 3,000 female soccer players, mostly in Wisconsin area high schools. Researchers initially found it difficult to convince coaches to take part.
In Wisconsin, research found that girls soccer and football have nearly an identical concussion rate. The rate of sustaining two or more concussions was found to be 20% for both sports. Previously, the CDC has reported in a separate study that 33% of players who report a concussion will sustain a second concussion within the season. Repeated concussive injury has a cumulative effect and can lead to substantial loss of function and neurologic impairment later in life.
The UW-Madison study also looked into the effectiveness of currently available soft shell headbands. Each product was tested to determine if soft protective headgear can reduce the overall number of concussions and their severity. To learn more about the UW-Madison study and to see interviews with coaches, players, and the scientists behind the study click below.
