Effectiveness of a tailored neck training program on neck strength, movement, and fatigue in under-19 male rugby players: a randomized controlled pilot study

Abstract

PurposeTo investigate the effect of a tailored neck muscle conditioning program on neck muscle strength, neck muscle fatigue, and range of neck movement in 16–18-year-old male rugby players.Materials and methodsThirty-four male rugby players were divided into forward and back playing positions and randomized within these groups. Seventeen players were randomly assigned to each group. The test group was given a tailored 6-week exercise regime based on their baseline measurements to be performed three times a week in addition to their normal training and playing. The control group trained and played as normal. The outcome measures used were cervical spine range of movement, neck strength, and neck muscle fatigability.ResultsThere were no clinically relevant statistically significant differences between the two groups. Trends identified between the two groups suggest that a tailored neck exercise program increases neck strength, particularly neck extension, and increases resistance to fatigue, as well as influencing right- and left-sided neck muscle balance. A reduction in range of movement was also demonstrated in the test group. There was a great deal of variability in range of movement and strength within this age group. No previously undiagnosed neck conditions were detected, and there were no adverse events reported.ConclusionThis study has shown that neck strength, range of movement, and susceptibility of the neck muscles to fatigue can be influenced using a focused neck training regime. It forms an important basis for a larger, multicenter study to ensure the neck is given due attention in rugby training and receives the same focus of conditioning as other parts of the body.

Current state of concussion prevention strategies: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective, controlled studies

“…During the literature search of this review, no prospective trials were identified that evaluated training protocols for concussion prevention. As head acceleration plays a role in the pathophysiology of concussions, prevention strategies involving the development of a strong and massive neck musculature have been proposed 82 83. In a study of high school soccer, basketball and lacrosse athletes, overall neck strength, a measure of combined strength in flexion, extension and lateral flexion, and neck circumference were lesser in athletes who sustained concussions in comparison to their uninjured peers 82.…”

“…Isometric neck flexion and extension strength as well as neck girth can be increased significantly in just 8 weeks of training 84. Recently, investigators reported trends towards increased neck strength in rugby players after only 6 weeks of training 83. In addition, pilot results from an intervention that included a 5 min tackling drill without helmets and shoulder pads reduced head impacts in collegiate football players over a single competitive season 85.…”

Eight Weeks of Self-Resisted Neck Strength Training Improves Neck Strength in Age-Grade Rugby Union Players: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

“…Previous studies have investigated the effect of different neck-strengthening programs with varying results. Strengthening programs that involved 50% to 70% maximal voluntary contraction during exercises for 5 to 6 weeks resulted in no clinically meaningful changes in total neck strength in male rugby players 2 under 19 years old or professional rugby players. 24 A 5-week program involving maximal resistance to an external load applied by a strength and conditioning coach resulted in a clinically significant ~19% increase in total neck strength compared with baseline in professional rugby players.…”

“…1,19 To be effective as an injury prevention measure in the real world, 12 players must comply with the injury-prevention program. 22 Two neck-strengthening programs required equipment such as weights machines 2,24 or head harnesses 18,24 and required ~8 15 to 20 minutes 2 per player to perform, and 1 required trained personnel such as strength and conditioning coaches to apply resistance. 15 Time, personnel, and equipment are common barriers to compliance, particularly within nonprofessional settings.…”

Reliability of Repeated Isometric Neck Strength in Rugby Union Players Using a Load Cell Device

“…An alternative to the 'break' test is to use the 'make' test, which is performed using a head harness attached to a load cell device to a fixed frame or tested against a manual resistance in seated or lying positions with the participant exerting maximal strength against the load cell or handheld dynamometer [7,19,20]. The reliability of make test isometric neck strength measures from a load cell in healthy individuals was excellent between-day (ICC 0.94-0.98) performed in sitting position [21].…”