Female Athlete and Sports-Related Concussions

Clin Sports Med. 2021 Jan;40(1):133-145. doi: 10.1016/j.csm.2020.08.006.

Abstract

Female athletes are participating in collision sports in greater numbers than previously. The overall incidence of concussion is known to be higher in female athletes than in male athletes participating in similar sports. Evidence suggests anatomic, biomechanical, and biochemical etiologies behind this sex disparity. Future research on female athletes is needed for further guidance on prevention and management of concussion in girls and women.

Keywords: Concussion; Female athlete; Gender disparity; Injury epidemiology.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Athletic Injuries / epidemiology*
  • Athletic Injuries / physiopathology
  • Brain Concussion / epidemiology*
  • Brain Concussion / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Return to Sport
  • Sex Characteristics
  • Time Factors