Saccadic Differences in High and Low-Contact Sports

Authors: Monica Stapor, Vipul Lugade, Chao Shi, Stanley Hunter, Michael Dulas, Isiah Turner, Fabiha Islam, Monica Stapor, Natalia Gierlachowski

Field of Study: Science, Technology, Engineering, and/or Math

Program Affiliation: Motion Analysis Research Laboratory

Faculty Mentors: Vipul Lugade

Easel: 34

Timeslot: Afternoon

Abstract: Young athletes competing in high-contact sports are more susceptible to mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) than those in low-contact sports. Such injuries can result in neurological deficits, including saccadic dysfunction and smooth pursuit deficits, which can potentially interfere with everyday activities. This study utilized eye-tracking technology (Tobii Pro Glasses 3) to evaluate the preseason saccadic behaviors in high and low-contact sports as well as athletes with and without previous concussions. It was hypothesized that concussed athletes would exhibit a lower saccade count, higher velocity and greater amplitude compared to non-concussed athletes. In high-impact sports, the results demonstrated significant differences in the saccade count, suggesting that the number of saccades may be a potential indicator for concussion-related visual deficits. Data obtained through eye-tracking assessments can provide valuable insights into the neurological effects of sports-related concussions and enhance diagnostics while supporting more effective injury management and prevention.