In 2021, rugby union pioneered the use of eye tracking technology to assist in the detection of in-game concussions. The technology was used in matches in addition to the concussion protocol (HIA) and also as part of the return to game stages entered.
However, how does eye tracking technology work and why are technological advances like this so important in modern rugby?
How Eye Tracking Technology Works
Scientific studies have shown that eye movement, or eye movement function, is impaired during a concussion or in the moments following it. Therefore, current technology aims to detect any changes in this function.
At the time, World Rugby announced that testing such technology demonstrated its unwavering commitment to integrating and evaluating the latest scientific and technological advances in rugby. For the test, it partnered with two global specialists in eye-tracking technology, EyeGuide and NeuroFlex®.
How is the technology used?
During the testing phase, the technology was used in conjunction with the concussion protocol (HIA). It has also been used as part of the six-step return to play protocol to monitor players returning from injury.
According to information from specialist rugby facilities, the technology was used for the first time during the Trans Tasman Super Rugby competition in 2021. At that time, it recorded the horizontal and vertical movement of the eyes, as well as the movement of the head, and thus established a report for to detect any changes that might indicate the presence of a concussion.
At the time, Dr. Éanna Falvey, World Rugby’s chief medical officer, said: “We believe that eye tracking in rugby has the potential to better assess concussions and help manage them better by identifying possible abnormalities in eye movement functions between the field and the moment when. the player is treated on a concussion protocol, which provides an additional advantage in the identification methods available for sport.
Why is this technology so important?
Technologies to help detect head injuries and concussions are essential. The treatment of head injuries in rugby is indeed closely monitored. It has to be said that World Rugby, the Rugby Football Union and the Welsh Rugby Union have all been taken to court by former players showing symptoms of early dementia in recent years.
It should be noted that eye tracking technology is not the only form of technology that has been used in sports to aid in the identification of concussion symptoms. For example, players are now also starting to wear so-called “smart” mouthguards at an international level, which are able to notify a doctor when they have received a serious impact and need to be examined for possible head injuries.