Video analysis of head blows leading to concussion in competition Taekwondo.

PRIMARY OBJECTIVES

To analyse the situational and contextual factors surrounding concussions and head blows in Taekwondo.

METHODS AND PROCEDURES

Prospective design. Direct observation, subject interview and videotape recording used. A total of 2328 competitors participated in the 2001 tournament, South Korea. All matches were recorded on videotape. All recipients of head blows were interviewed by athletic therapists and the researcher immediately after the match. The videotapes of concussions and head blows were analysed.

RESULTS

A total of 1009 head blows including concussions were analysed. Head blows and concussions were most evident when the attacker was situated in a closed stance and received a single roundhouse kick. The most frequent anatomical site of the head impact was the temporal region.

CONCLUSIONS

The frequency of head blows and concussions is high in Taekwondo. Development of blocking skills, safety education, rigorous enforcement of the competition rules and improvement of head-gear are recommended.