Head and Neck Injury Prevention Strategies in Rugby Union : Conducting Introductory Workshop for Finnish Rugby Association

Abstract

The aim of this practical thesis was to increase knowledge and improve the capability of the players and coaches in Finland to apply evidence-based strategies aimed at preventing head and neck injuries in rugby. A live introductory workshop and information package for the usage of Finnish rugby community was produced to reach this goal. Since injuries can be preventable in many cases, the author wanted to uncover the question, how precludable head and neck injuries are in rugby participation. The objective of this written report was to gather the needed data to be able to plan and deliver the prod-uct as well as declare the work process and portray the event. In the theoretical framework of this paper the author reviewed the findings from the literature concerning the principles of injury prevention and explored the current literature about the prevalence and multiple predisposing factors for sustaining a head and cervical injury in rugby.

The workshop event was arranged during spring 2024 in Finland´s national team camp. Due to the importance of the topic, it was crucial to address the existing knowledge of the topic. The occasion began with a foundation in theo-ry, followed by practical application with the participants. The focus was ac-knowledging the issue, identifying risk factors, examining strategies to target the problem, implementing exercises, and provoking individual processes concerning own competencies of the players. Collaborative learning allowed the participants to combine some clinically relevant information with practical field expertise which they depicted to be beneficial. Open conversation and questions were actuated during the session. As a result, a common consen-sus was drawn upon the idea, that in rugby training, the neck area should re-ceive the same focus of conditioning as other parts of the body and the correct technique is paramount regarding safety. The majority of the participants reported gaining new knowledge about head and neck injuries and acquiring practical insights into potentially beneficial training interventions.

This thesis aspired to promote safer rugby in Finland. To achieve this goal, more research and practical implementation is required to design, conduct, and evaluate the effectiveness of head and neck injury prevention measures.