Concussion Awareness Month: Understanding the Risks and the Role of Neck Strengthening

Concussion Awareness Month is an important opportunity to shine a light on one of the most common, yet often misunderstood, brain injuries. At Iron Neck UK & Europe, we believe in not only raising awareness but also sharing practical strategies to help reduce the risks.

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a blow or jolt to the head, or an impact to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can cause chemical changes in the brain and, in some cases, damage brain cells.

Unlike fractures or cuts, a concussion is an “invisible injury,” meaning it does not show up on standard imaging scans, but it can have significant effects on cognitive, physical, and emotional health.

Who is Most at Risk?

While anyone can experience a concussion, certain groups are particularly at risk:

• Athletes – especially those involved in contact sports such as rugby, football, boxing, hockey, and martial arts.
• Children and adolescents – due to developing brains and higher participation in organised sport.
• Older adults – where falls are a leading cause of concussions.
• Workers in physically demanding environments – such as construction, military, or emergency services.

Common Symptoms of Concussion

Concussion symptoms can vary widely and may not appear immediately after the incident. Some of the most common include:

• Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Confusion, memory issues, or difficulty concentrating
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Feeling sluggish, groggy, or “not right”

It is vital to note that loss of consciousness does not always occur with concussion.

Treatment and Recovery

The cornerstone of concussion treatment is rest. This includes both physical rest and limiting activities that require concentration and mental effort, such as screen time or studying. A gradual return to activity, under medical supervision, is usually recommended.

If symptoms persist, or if there are red flag signs such as worsening headache, repeated vomiting, or loss of consciousness, medical attention must be sought immediately.

The Role of Neck Strength in Reducing Concussion Risk

While no strategy can completely eliminate the risk of concussion, evidence suggests that stronger necks may help reduce the forces transferred to the brain during impact.

A study by Collins et al. (2014) found that for every one-pound increase in neck strength, the odds of concussion decreased by 5% in high school athletes. The rationale is straightforward: a stronger, more stable neck can better control the head’s movement during sudden forces, reducing acceleration and rotational forces on the brain.

Direct neck training—using tools like the Iron Neck Pro 3.0 or Alpha Harness—allows athletes, rehabilitation specialists, and fitness professionals to strengthen the cervical muscles in all planes of motion. This type of training is particularly valuable for those in contact or collision sports, where concussions are a persistent concern.

Moving Forward with Awareness and Action

Concussion Awareness Month is about more than recognising the injury—it’s about taking proactive steps to reduce risk, support recovery, and protect long-term health. By combining education, proper management, and preventative strategies such as neck strengthening, we can help athletes and individuals alike stay safer and more resilient.

At Iron Neck UK & Europe, we are committed to supporting coaches, physiotherapists, and athletes with evidence-based solutions for injury prevention and performance.

✅ If you’d like to explore equipment designed specifically for neck training, visit us at www.iron-neck.co.uk.