A Study of TopSpin360 Training Device

The Effectiveness of a Novel Neck Training Device on Objective Neck Strength and Cognitive Measures in Junior A Hockey Players

This research is being done to investigate the novel neck strengthening device, TopSpin360 and its effectiveness on measures of neck strength and cognitive function.

The neck plays a very important role in head positioning, stabilization, and decrease risk and severity. Neck extension strength measure has been associated with a decrease in concussion risk in male rugby players. Neck muscle characteristics may play a vital role in mitigating head accelerations due to contact thus reducing head impact severity. We hypothesize enhanced neuromuscular characteristics of cervical muscles will decrease brain impairments due to repeated contact.

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.