Helmet Add-Ons May Not Lower Concussion Risk in Athletes

Recent testing reports that popular football-helmet accessories designed to increase head stability and reduce rates of concussion are not substantially effective, despite popular claims. The study was conducted by BRAINS, Inc., and will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s 67th Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. Researchers enhanced the typical drop test used by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment, which realistically simulates head impacts. Sensors were placed in a dummy’s head to measure linear and angular rotational responses to helmet impacts at 10, 12 and 14 miles per hour. Results of the study showed linear acceleration impacts, typical of drop tests, were reduced by 11 percent, but angular impacts were only reduced by two percent. “These findings are important because angular accelerations are believed to be the major biomechanical forces involved in concussion,” said the author of the study. “Few add-on products have undergone even basic biomechanical evaluation. Hopefully, our research will lead to more rigorous testing of helmets and add-ons.” To learn more about this study, click here.