Heads Up! A Brief Look At Mountain Biking Concussion Management
Having recently finished a dissertation all about concussion in mountain biking, it seemed fitting to give you a blog post while it's fresh on my mind.
Introduction
Mountain biking is a brilliant, exciting sport attracting thousands of enthusiasts worldwide. However, the thrill of tackling rugged trails also comes with inherent risks, including the potential for concussion. In recent years, concussion management in mountain biking (along with many other sports) has evolved significantly, with increased awareness, advanced technology, and improved protocols helping to keep riders safe on the trails.
Let’s take a slightly deeper look into the current state of concussion management in mountain biking, along with some prevention, recognition and concussion-care advice for you to take to the trails.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Preventing concussion starts with wearing the proper protective gear. While helmets have not been proven to reduce concussions, they do play a critical role in reducing the risk of other head injuries, such as fractures or more severe traumatic brain injuries. Therefore, a specific mountain bike helmet designed to sufficiently absorb and disperse impact forces is essential. When selecting a helmet, look for one that has undergone rigorous safety testing and meets industry standards, such as those set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or European Committee for Standardisation (CEN).
Consider wearing a full-face helmet, which provides extra protection for the jaw and face. Additionally, helmets equipped with Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) technology can help reduce rotational forces during an angled impact, possibly lowering the risk of concussion (although the jury is still out on this). It's also a good idea to wear protective eyewear, gloves, and body armour to shield against cuts, scrapes, and more severe injuries.
Proper maintenance of your bike is another essential aspect of crash prevention. Regularly inspect your bike for wear or damage, and promptly address any issues to ensure optimal performance and safety. This includes checking the brakes, tires, suspension, and other components.
Moreover, honing your riding skills and practising trail etiquette can help reduce the likelihood of head injuries. Take the time to learn proper techniques for cornering, descending, and navigating technical terrain. Don’t take on trails that are above your pay grade. Be respectful and aware of other trail users, and take care to avoid collisions.
Recognising the Signs of a Concussion
Knowing the signs and symptoms of a concussion is also crucial for mountain bikers and event staff and coaches in the case of races. Symptoms can include headache, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating. Nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or noise may also be present. In some cases, symptoms may not appear immediately, making it essential to monitor your condition closely following a crash.
A loss of consciousness is NOT a requirement for you to have sustained a concussion.
If riders suspect they have sustained a concussion, they should stop riding immediately and seek medical attention. It is essential not to ignore or downplay symptoms, as doing so can lead to further complications and prolonged recovery times. Remember that even a seemingly mild concussion can have significant consequences if not properly managed.
Do not continue to ride if you suspect concussion. The effects on your balance, reaction time and other mental factors leave you more likely to crash a second time. Your brain is also more vulnerable after a concussion. A further insult to it could result in Second Impact Syndrome (SIS).
In-Event Protocols and Response
Many mountain biking event organisers now have established concussion protocols in place to ensure rider safety, in line with the governing bodies of that country (e.g. British Cycling for the UK). These protocols may include mandatory removal from the race if a concussion is suspected, immediate medical evaluation, and a specific return-to-ride timeline to prevent further injury. Medical personnel at the event should be trained in using concussion assessment tools (e.g. the “SCAT 5” tool) and have the appropriate tools to assess and diagnose the injury.
Event organisers are responsible for ensuring that concussion protocols are followed consistently and that appropriate resources, such as medical staff and equipment, are available. It is also essential to educate riders, coaches, and support staff about the importance of adhering to these protocols and promptly reporting suspected concussions.
Post-Concussion Management
Proper concussion management doesn't end once the rider is off the trail or even seen by hospital staff. Riders must follow a prescribed return-to-activity plan, which typically includes a gradual increase in physical activity and mental exertion without the return of symptoms. This plan should be tailored to the individual and consider the severity of the concussion as well as any other pre-existing conditions.
In some cases, riders may need to work with healthcare professionals such as neurologists, sports medicine specialists, and physical therapists to address lingering symptoms and ensure a safe return to the sport. These professionals can help riders develop a personalised recovery plan, monitor progress, and adjust as needed.
The Role of Technology
Technology has played a significant role in advancing concussion diagnosis and management in mountain biking. Wearable devices, such as helmet-mounted sensors, can detect and measure accelerations of the head, alerting riders and event staff to potential injuries. In addition, these sensors can provide real-time data on the force and direction of impacts, helping medical professionals make informed decisions about a rider's condition.
New helmet designs featuring advanced materials and impact-absorbing technology have also helped reduce the risk of head injuries. For example, helmets with energy-absorbing foam liners, such as expanded polystyrene (EPS) or expanded polypropylene (EPP), can help dissipate impact forces more effectively. Furthermore, innovations like MIPS technology aim to minimise rotational accelerations, which contribute significantly to concussions during angled impacts.
In addition, mobile apps and telemedicine platforms are becoming increasingly useful in concussion management. They can provide remote access to healthcare professionals, track symptoms, and offer guidance on recovery protocols. These tools help ensure that riders receive timely care and support, even when they're not near a medical facility.
Conclusion
The mountain biking community and relevant governing bodies have come a long way in addressing the risks associated with concussions. Through prevention strategies, prompt diagnosis, and proper treatment, riders can continue to enjoy the sport with greater confidence in their safety. As technology and awareness continue to improve, concussion management in mountain biking will undoubtedly continue to evolve, ensuring that riders can tackle the trails with both excitement and peace of mind.
