10
Reduce Whiplash
The concussive cycle of the old-style headguard promotes whiplash movement
Whiplash or coup contrecoup injury are terms commonly associated with concussions and neck injuries that result from a sudden and forceful back-and-forth (acceleration or deceleration) movement of the head and neck. The old-style headguard above fosters whiplash motions because of how it is designed. It was designed in a time before the study of concussions were common. Whiplash is a movement of the head that uses the neck as a pivot point. It can be forward or back movement or side to side. A helmet that allows this movement allows the head to accelerate and create momentum. “It has been evident to boxers and most laymen and physicians that the essential feature of a concussive force is that it be sufficient to jar or shake the head and any connection thereto” (Parkinson, 1982 p.132). Because the brain is within the skull when the skull stops the brain keeps moving until it stops by crashing into the inside of the skull. It is a problem with the design of the headguard that allows this sequence of events.
To eliminate whiplash movement Warrior Tough helmets greatly reduced the space required for it. By putting padding behind the head, it reduced the area that permits the head to gain momentum. Because the movement is reduced there is less transfer of momentum to the brain so potential for a whiplash or impulse concussion is reduced. Because the movement area is reduced it mathematically takes a harder hit to create the force necessary to cause the concussion.
Additionally, the padding placement allows for support and cushioning of the blow reducing trauma and assists in reducing the force of the hit by the force absorption quality of the padding.
Through providing the ability to brace the helmet on the torso and create a link between the head and torso whiplash was reduced and a situation is created where energy is allowed to transfer from the head to the torso reducing the energy absorbed by the brain that causes concussion. "For example, if the head is stationary or in contact with another surface, the kinetic energy from a blow (punch) will simply flow through it and be transmitted elsewhere, leaving the brain unharmed and its function intact" (Shaw, 2002, p. 287).
A concussion can happen anytime there is head movement. At Warrior Tough we have worked to create a helmet that allows free movement so the athlete can enjoy their sport while reducing movement that create concussion potential. Through bracing a connection is created between the head and torso which adds the mass of the torso to the head making it more difficult to move. Which is similar to the connection an MMA fighter makes by placing their head against the mat to avoid concussion. “Unarmed combat experts and street fighters have long known that it is virtually impossible to knock out an opponent whose head is fixed against a wall or on the ground. They do not possess the force in their limbs to move both the head and the wall or the ground behind it.” ( Parkinson 1982 p.132)
Warrior Tough helmets inhibit whiplash potential via its unique patented design and 10 innovative concussion interventions, materials used, and methods of use such as, bracing, hulking and steeling yourself for contact. The Warrior Tough Concussion Reduction helmet is a tool the athlete can use to improve technique, take a protective posture and reduce potential for brain injury. It is built to reduce trauma and it cushions a blow changing what getting hit feels like compared to old-style headguards. Because of its design it changes the concussion equation to the athletes favor so when it is properly used it mathematically takes a harder hit to reach the concussive threshold. It was field tested for five years with a National Championship College Boxing Team and performed flawlessly. The design was concussion tested and consistently scored below the concussive threshold. No other helmet on the market can make these claims. The Warrior Tough Concussion Counterpunch helmet is the new standard in combat arts head protection.
Impact Absorbing Materials:
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Warrior Tough helmets are constructed with quality force absorbent materials that help dissipate and distribute impact forces. These materials help reduce the abrupt transfer of energy to the head and neck during an impact.
2. Shock Absorption Systems:
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Warrior Tough helmets include specialized shock absorption technology, designed to dissipate and absorb energy upon impact, providing an added layer of protection against whiplash injuries.
3. Neck Support and Stability:
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Warrior Tough helmets incorporate features that provide additional support and stability to the neck. “It has been evident to boxers and most laymen and physicians that the essential feature of a concussive force is that it be sufficient to jar or shake the head and any connection thereto.” (Parkinson, 1982 p.132) This can help minimize excessive movement of the head and neck during an impact, reducing the risk of neck injuries.
Brow and Enhanced Face Protection:
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Warrior Tough helmets are designed for combat sports activities and include additional padding supporting the jaw and around the neck. These features reduce injury potential to the face, jaw and neck during impact events.
Customizable Fit:
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Warrior Tough helmets are made with an adjustable and customizable fit system that allows athletes to adjust the helmet for a snug and secure fit. A properly fitted helmet is crucial for preventing excessive movement and injuries.