A neck patch for athletes could help detect concussions early

The device is an upgrade from bulky helmet sensors prone to false readings, scientists say

a football player tackles a quarterback during the 2015 Goodyear Cotton Bowl

Football tackles — like this one during the 2015 Goodyear Cotton Bowl in Arlington, Texas — can cause whiplash and concussion. Scientists have designed a neck patch that could help detect these injuries faster than current methods.

Ron Jenkins/Getty Images

A flexible sensor applied to the back of the neck could help researchers detect whiplash-induced concussions in athletes.