Concussion knowledge and attitudes amongst community club rugby stakeholders

Abstract

Due to the nature of rugby, concussions are a frequent occurrence and can go undetected by different stakeholders. Knowledge regarding identification of symptoms, management and prevention of re-injury is crucial for the welfare of players. The aim of the study was to determine the concussion knowledge and attitudes among different community club rugby stakeholders. The study gathered quantitative information by utilizing the Rosenbaum Concussion Knowledge and Attitude Survey-Student Version (RoCKAS-ST). Of all the participants (N = 434), medical staff (79 ± 10%) provided the highest Concussion Knowledge Index scores followed by referees (78 ± 8%) and players (67 ± 13%). The stakeholders scored 76% overall for Concussion Attitude Index. Across the scenarios the different participants believed to have safer attitudes compared to that of others within their team. Statistical differences were found between stakeholders when asked if concussion is less important than other injuries, as players, coaches and administrative staff all indicated an unsafe response in contrast to that of referees (p < 0.01). Players indicated an unsafe attitude towards returning to play, while symptomatic as a result of a concussion whereas coaches indicated a safer response (p < 0.01). Only two out of eight legitimate symptoms, headaches and dizziness, were correctly identified by 80% or more of participants, which warrants concern that identification of symptoms could be lacking on this level. Investigating the knowledge and attitudes of concussion at community club rugby level could identify which areas are to be further targeted by the South African Rugby Union.