Investigating a neck strengthening device for ice hockey players
The Effectiveness of a Novel Neck Training Device on Objective Neck Strength and Cognitive Measures in Junior A Hockey Players
This study tests whether a neck strengthening device can help ice hockey players improve their neck strength and brain function to reduce the risk of concussions.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 21 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Mayo Clinic Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Rochester, Minnesota) |
| Trial ID | NCT06052553 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research evaluates the TopSpin360 training device, focusing on its effectiveness in enhancing neck strength and cognitive function among healthy ice hockey players. The study aims to understand how improved neck muscle characteristics can reduce the risk and severity of concussions by stabilizing head positioning during contact. Participants will undergo assessments to measure changes in neck strength and cognitive performance after using the device. The hypothesis is that stronger cervical muscles will lead to decreased brain impairments from repeated impacts.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy ice hockey players who are fluent in English and medically cleared to participate in the sport.
Not a fit: Patients with documented hearing issues, implanted devices, or a history of seizures may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to improved safety and reduced concussion risk for ice hockey players.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that strengthening neck muscles can reduce concussion risk, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Fluent English Speaker. * Medically cleared to play ice hockey. Exclusion Criteria: * Clinically documented hearing issues. * In-ear hearing aid or cochlear implant. * Implanted pacemaker or defibrillator. * Metal or plastic implants in skull. lack of verbal fluency in the English language. * History of seizures. * Allergy to rubbing alcohol or EEG gel.
Where this trial is running
Rochester, Minnesota
- Mayo Clinic in Rochester — Rochester, Minnesota, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Mario Hevesi, MD — Mayo Clinic
- Study coordinator: Houston Hawkins
- Email: Hawkins.Houston@mayo.edu
- Phone: 507-293-3295
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.