Computational modelling of traumatic brain injury in elite Rugby Union

Collisions in contact sports may result in traumatic brain injury (TBI) and understanding how the biomechanics of impacts relates to TBI is key to improving the safety of games. Previous studies have used video analysis (1) and computational modelling to study head impacts in Rugby Union (2), showing the effects of body and head positioning and speed on risk of mild TBI. Here we present a new case study in Rugby Football Union using video analysis, multibody dynamics and high fidelity finite element analysis of TBI. Emerging evidence suggests neck strength training can reduce risk of head injury (3) and the focus of our initial study is on the effects of neck constraints on brain tissue deformation.