Examining the Relationship Between Purposeful Heading in Soccer and Computerized Neuropsychological Test Performance

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine if a relationship exists between purposeful heading in soccer and neuropsychological test performance. Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics throughput scores were derived on seven subset variables that measure a variety of neurocognitive abilities. Simple Spearman's rank correlations were calculated between headers per game (HPG) and the criterion variables. Interestingly, math processing speed (Spearman's rho = .160) and continuous performance test #2 (rho = .124) had small but significant correlations; both showed improvement in performance pre- to postseason. There were no significant correlations between HPG and the other five variables. This study found no detrimental relationship between the number of purposeful headers and the neurocognitive measures in this population.

Effect of soccer heading ball speed on S100B, sideline concussion assessments and head impact kinematics

“…Collegiate soccer players perform an average of 2.8-8.5 headers per game and $500 headers over an entire season [3][4][5]. Most researchers report no acute deficits in cognition [6] or balance [7][8][9] following a single heading session.…”

Vestibular Dysfunction after Subconcussive Head Impact

“…Several studies have shown significant changes in motor performance after repeated subconcussive head impacts, 4,8,9 while others have shown no significant changes in behavior. [10][11][12][13][14][15] It is likely that the clinical tests used may not be sensitive to the subtle changes in response to subconcussion. 1,3,11,16,17 In the current study, we used the soccer-heading paradigm along with sophisticated measures of vestibular function to characterize how mild head impact may influence standing and walking stability.…”

“…[10][11][12][13][14][15] It is likely that the clinical tests used may not be sensitive to the subtle changes in response to subconcussion. 1,3,11,16,17 In the current study, we used the soccer-heading paradigm along with sophisticated measures of vestibular function to characterize how mild head impact may influence standing and walking stability. Because of its anatomical location in the head, the vestibular system is particularly vulnerable to disruption from head impact, and the disruption in the integration of vestibular processing could be an underlying basis for balance problems after head impact.…”

Arterial Spin Labeling Magnetic Resonance Perfusion for Traumatic Brain Injury

“…In addition, there is mixed consensus regarding reported neuropsychological test results, as typified by reaction time measures and neuropsychological testing following exposure to subconcussive head blows in sports; for example, in adolescent sports (soccer and football), some authors report no measurable difference, [41][42][43][44][45][46][47] while others report changes following chronic HIE. [48][49][50][51][52][53] These disparities invite further debate regarding the value of such tests.…”