Does headgear do anything to prevent concussion? Should headgear be compulsory for rugby players?

In this video NSW Waratahs team doctor Dr Sharron Flahive and physiotherapist Katie Ryan discuss the benefits and risks of headgear in relation to concussion.

Key points:

• Headgear is really useful for protecting against lacerations & protecting from ‘cauliflower’ ears, but there is no conclusive evidence to suggest it reduces the risk of concussion.
• Headgear can boost players’ confidence in contact, but players, coaches and parents must understand good technique - and therefore good fitness to be able to maintain that technique - will decrease the risk of concussion.