Ask Dr. Nick
On today’s episode, Dr. Nick talks about how training the visual system can potentially decrease concussions in football players. The visual system is the brain’s main sense and continually obtains information for decision making. If this system can be enhanced to widen a football player’s peripheral visual field and reaction time, it can improve motor control to brace an oncoming hit. This can potentially reduce concussions. In the article discussed, the University of Cincinnati football team undergoes neuro-visual training during pre-season camp and maintains it during the season. Since starting the training, they have had a significantly decreased rate of concussions on their football team along with improved reaction time in their peripheral vision. Check out the video for more in depth information on how training vision can decrease concussions and improve performance!
- Clark JF, et al. An exploratory study of the potential effects of vision training on concussion incidence in football. Optometry and Visual Performance. 2015;3(1)
- Clark JF, Colosimo A, Ellis JK, et al. Vision training methods for sports concussion mitigation and management. J Vis Exp. 2015;(99):e52648.
