Where are we headed? Evidence to inform future heading guidelines

Abstract

Introduction: Football is one of the few sports whereby the head is purposefully used as a key requirement of the game, with the skill of heading taught from a young playing age. There is current scientific and public concern over the uncertainty of short-, medium- and long-term consequences of heading on brain health. Hence, a precautionary approach to mitigate any possible risks is desirable whilst the evidence remains equivocal. One such approach is being proactive about developing and implementing strategies and guidelines that help reduce the burden (volume and intensity) of heading in young and beginner players, which requires integration of a multitude of topics to inform such strategies.