Researchers Issued Patent for Neck Strength Assessment Tool

A UNCW research team developing a cutting-edge Neck Strength Assessment Tool (NSAT), with the potential to mitigate head and neck injuries in both soldiers and athletes, has been issued a U.S. patent, marking a significant step forward in the project's development.

Lindsey Schroeder, associate professor of athletic training, and Alex McDaniel, associate professor of exercise science, are co-leading the multidisciplinary team. The issued patent builds on NCInnovation grant funding awarded to the team to support the translation of university research into real-world applications. The project focuses on developing a portable system that objectively measures neck strength to help reduce the risk of head and neck injuries.

"I am excited that Alex and I have been awarded a patent from the United States Patent and Trademark Office, marking the first patent in our college's history. This achievement reflects the rigor, creativity and collaborative scholarship that define our work, and I am honored to contribute to this milestone for our institution." - Associate Professor Lindsey Schroeder

The NSAT is designed to provide data-driven assessment of neuromuscular performance, helping identify individuals who may be at higher risk for traumatic brain injuries, whiplash and other head and neck trauma. By enabling consistent, repeatable measurement of neck strength, the technology supports emerging injury prevention and rehabilitation strategies for military personnel, athletes and other high-risk populations.

Securing patent protection strengthens the project's pathway toward commercialization and reinforces NCInnovation's mission to accelerate the transition of university innovations from research labs to practical use. With this milestone achieved, the team will continue advancing NSAT toward broader validation and future deployment.