Compression forces on the cranium are indeed considered a potential cause of concussion, though the
specific classification can vary based on the nature and extent of the force.
Concussions, medically referred to as mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs), are typically caused by a
direct blow to the head, face, neck, or elsewhere on the body with a force transmitted to
the head.
However, compression forces, which involve the application of pressure to the skull, can also lead to
brain injuries by causing the brain to deform within the skull.
This can disrupt the normal function of the brain and lead to concussion symptoms.
Research and Resources on Compression Forces and Concussion
Journal of Neurotrauma: This journal often publishes studies on different mechanisms of brain injury,
including those caused by compression forces.
Beyond sports concussion – research on mTBI, including compression, tension, and shear, contributes to
the pathology of concussions and is found in journals listed below.
Araki T, Yokota H, Morita A. Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury: Characteristic Features, Diagnosis, and
Management. Neurol Med Chir (Tokyo). 2017 Feb 15;57(2):82-93. doi: 10.2176/nmc.ra.2016-0191. Epub
2017 Jan 20. PMID: 28111406; PMCID: PMC5341344.
Vester MEM, Bilo RAC, Loeve AJ, van Rijn RR, van Zandwijk JP. Modeling of inflicted head injury by
shaking trauma in children: what can we learn? : Part I: A systematic review of animal models. Forensic
Sci Med Pathol. 2019 Sep;15(3):408-422. doi: 10.1007/s12024-019-0082-3. Epub 2019 Mar 4. PMID:
30828765; PMCID: PMC6687679.
https://www.cerebralpalsyguidance.com/birth-injury/infant-brain-
damage/symptoms/#:~:text=Infant%20brain%20damage%20can%20result,childbirth%20because%20of
%20birth%20injuries.
Several other journals provide resources that discuss the various causes and effects of brain injuries,
including those resulting from compression forces. Their materials can help understand the medical and
rehabilitation needs following such injuries.Chong S. Head Injury during Childbirth. J Korean Neurosurg Soc. 2022
May;65(3):342-347. doi: 10.3340/jkns.2022.0045. Epub 2022 Apr 26. PMID:
35468705; PMCID: PMC9082121.
Understanding the Impact of Compression Forces
In the context of cranial compression, the force applied does not have to be dynamic or involve motion,
as seen in typical concussion-causing impacts. Instead, it involves a squeezing or pressing force against
the skull, which can alter the brain’s position or shape temporarily, disrupting neural pathways and
potentially causing concussion-like symptoms.
Each of these resources can provide further detail on how such forces interact with cranial structures
and why they are considered significant in the study and treatment of concussions.
This research is crucial for developing protective gear, medical protocols, and treatment strategies to
address and mitigate the effects of such forces on athletes, accident victims, and others exposed to
similar risks.
The phenomenon of birth-related concussions, particularly those involving the use of forceps and
suction (vacuum extraction), is an area of growing concern and research within the medical community.
The application of these instruments during delivery can exert significant mechanical forces on the
newborn’s cranium and brain, potentially leading to injuries akin to concussions or other forms of traumatic
brain injury (TBI).
Understanding the Mechanisms and Implications
Forceps and vacuum extractors can be crucial in complicated deliveries, potentially preventing more
severe outcomes by aiding in the delivery process. However, the mechanical force applied can also pose
risks.
Forceps, which clamp around the newborn’s head, can exert uneven pressure on the skull and brain,
potentially leading to bruising, swelling, or more severe intracranial injuries.
Similarly, vacuum extractors, which attach a suction cup to the baby’s head, create a vacuum force that
can lead to scalp injuries, cephalohematomas (a pooling of blood between the skull and the
periosteum), and in more severe cases, intracranial hemorrhaging.
The Path Forward
Ongoing research is essential to understand the full scope of these risks better and develop safer
practices and technologies for assisted deliveries. Improving training for the use of these instruments,
increasing awareness of potential complications and exploring alternative methods for difficult
deliveries are all critical steps toward minimizing the risk of birth-related concussions and ensuring the
health and safety of newborns.
Concussions can occur far beyond the field. The number one cause of concussion is falling in children
and seniors.