Prevention of head and neck trauma in rugby

Abstract

The incidence of rugby injuries to the head and neck region differs somewhat depending on the age of players and the level of competition. Although catastrophic head and/or neck trauma is rare, such trauma cannot be ignored given the prognostic significance of sequelae such as paralysis and the impact of that trauma on surrounding tissues and structures, caused by an acute subdural hematoma, acute epidural hematoma, traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage, contusions, or a cervical spinal cord injury. According to previous studies, most head and neck trauma occurs as a result of tackling. The cause of the injury is described as being largely related to tackling skill. In Japan, catastrophic head and/or neck trauma is very often related to tackling. The next most prevalent cause is a scrum in other countries, but in Japan it is a ruck. Head trauma seldom occurs in a scrum in rugby, but neck trauma often occurs. The biggest issue with neck trauma in a scrum is cervical spinal cord injuries. Many injuries related to mauls and rucks are the result of charging into a tight situation and making “head-first contact” with one’s head down while not looking where one is going. The Japan Rugby Football Union has implemented safety measures predicated on the tenet “Safe Technique = Good Technique”. This means that coaches and players are informed that correct play is safe and results in better performance. Players need to understand what “Safe Technique = Good technique” actually means.