The Relationship Between Neurocognitive Function and Concussion in Women Professional Football Players: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: To determine the neurocognitive functions of women professional football players and explore their potential connection to concussions. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted via electronic questionnaires. Neurocognitive function was assessed with the “CNS Vital Signs” testing tool. Results: In total, 68 participants performed the neurocognitive function testing. Compared with the reference population, players scored within the average range (≥90) for 11 of 12 neurocognitive domains. Motor speed was above average (SS = 111.7). Overall, no significant neurocognitive deficits were observed. Thirty-two participants (43%) reported one or more concussions, with defenders being most affected (50%). Among defenders, 64% (n = 16) have a history of one or multiple concussions. Players with a history of three concussions showed significant deficits in the simple attention domain. Conclusion: Professional women footballers did not show significant signs of neurocognitive function deficits. However, a history of three concussions was significantly associated with lower standard scores for the simple attention neurocognitive domain.