News by Levels · Level 2 · Student worksheet

Head-Impact Data Challenges a Safety Assumption

In this lesson: Connect the motion comparison with a caution about real impacts.

Name: __________________________ Date: __________________

Read the story

Stanford researchers studied mouthguard measurements from 203 athletes in seven sports, reporting their findings on November 9.

Peak linear acceleration was more predictive of concussion than peak rotational acceleration. Most real impacts involve both movements, so the finding does not remove concern about rotation.

Source: Stanford Medicine via Brightsurf, 2026-11-09. https://www.brightsurf.com/news/L592XN78/concussion-study-upends-understanding-of-what-makes-head-impacts-dangerous.html

Read and practise

1. What did peak linear acceleration do in this study?

   1. Predict concussion better than peak rotational acceleration
   2. Prove concussion never occurs during rotation
   3. Replace all other measurements

2. Why does concern about rotation remain?

   1. Most real impacts involve both types of movement
   2. The study found rotational acceleration more predictive
   3. The study proved every impact involves only straight-line movement

Your turn

Explain the result and why it does not dismiss rotational motion.

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Read online: https://newsbylevels.com/news/stanford-mouthguard-linear-head-impact-study-november-2026/level-2/