A new Australian study has revealed that weaker neck strength may significantly increase the risk of concussion in young rugby players, raising calls for targeted neck strengthening programs in youth contact sports.

Researchers assessed 43 male rugby union and rugby league players, aged 15 to 18, during the 2023 preseason. During the research period 11 players sustained a concussion. 

The study found that players who suffered a concussion had significantly weaker neck extension strength compared to those who remained concussion-free.

The study is published in Sports Medicine Australia’s Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport (JSAMS) magazine.

Weaker neck extension strength — both in raw force (measured in kilograms) and when adjusted for body weight — was linked to a higher risk of concussion. 

An optimal cut-off point for neck extension strength was identified at 32.1 kilograms, while a ratio of flexor to extensor strength greater than 0.74 made players three times more likely to suffer a concussion.

“As neck strength is modifiable, the results of this study may help healthcare practitioners to identify at-risk adolescent athletes for targeted neck strengthening interventions to reduce their risk of sustaining a concussion during the season,” the researchers said.

Other aspects of neck function, such as endurance and proprioception (the ability to sense head position), did not show a meaningful relationship with concussion risk.

Concussions have become a growing concern in contact sports such as rugby, particularly at the youth level. 

Tackling and being tackled remain the leading causes of concussions in rugby. 

This study adds to the evidence that player-specific physical conditioning — such as building stronger neck muscles — could offer additional protection.

The findings have important implications for coaches, trainers, and medical teams working with young athletes. 

Targeted neck strengthening programs could be a simple but effective way to enhance player safety in high-impact sports, the study – conducted at St Laurence’s College, South Brisbane, Queensland – found.

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About JSAMS

The Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport (JSAMS) is published by Sports Medicine Australia.

The journal provides high-quality, original research papers to keep Sports Medicine Australia members and subscribers informed of developments in the areas of sports exercise and medicine, sports injury, physical activity, and sports exercise and science.