Neurocognitive function following repetitive head impacts in football
Football (soccer) is played by millions worldwide, and uniquely involves using the unprotected head to strike the ball.
However, there is growing concern that repeated exposure may be linked to potential neurological risks, leading to debate about the safety of heading at all levels of the sport.
Research
Understanding the effects of headers in football has become increasingly important as concerns grow about the potential long‑term neurological consequences of repeated impacts.
To draw clearer conclusions about how heading exposure relates to brain health, researchers need methods that can accurately quantify how often players head the ball, the force characteristics of each header, as well as standardised neurocognitive test batteries that are sensitive to detecting subtle cognitive impairment following impacts.
Research is needed to more precisely isolate the risk of heading in football, and to formulate adequate safeguards. Our lab is closely examining players over a sustained period of time using a variety of cutting-edge techniques for monitoring heading and the brain.
Dr James Roberts
Lecturer in Cognitive and Biological Psychology, School of Sport & Exercise Science
