Combat Sports and Concussions: What You Need to Know

Combat sports such as boxing, mixed martial arts, and wrestling have long been associated with the risk of concussion. These types of injuries can have serious long-term consequences for athletes, including chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). In this article, we will explore the incidence of concussions in combat sports and the importance of prevention, management, and treatment.

Incidence of Concussion in Combat Sports

Studies have shown that the incidence of concussion in combat sports is high. For example, in professional boxing, the incidence of concussion is approximately 12.6% per fight, while in amateur boxing, it is even higher at 18.3%. Mixed martial arts fighters experience concussions at a rate of around 14.1% per fight, and wrestlers have an incidence of around 6.3% per season.

The Accumulation of Head Trauma

One of the biggest risk factors for concussions in combat sports is the accumulation of head trauma over time. Research has shown that athletes who have been in more fights and have longer careers are at a higher risk of developing cognitive and neurological problems. In addition, fighters with a history of head trauma are more likely to experience symptoms of concussion.

Prevention and Management of Concussion

Prevention of concussion in combat sports includes the use of protective headgear and strict rules and regulations regarding head strikes. Studies have shown that the use of headgear can reduce the incidence of concussion in amateur boxing by 63%, although it does not completely prevent concussions.

Proper management and treatment of the injury are also essential. This includes removing the athlete from competition and providing appropriate medical care, such as rest and rehabilitation. Research has shown that appropriate management of concussion can reduce the risk of long-term neurological problems.

In conclusion, concussions are a significant concern in combat sports, with a high incidence in professional and amateur boxing, mixed martial arts, and wrestling. The accumulation of head trauma over time is a major risk factor for these injuries, and proper prevention, management, and treatment are essential to reduce the risk of long-term neurological problems.

Do you think combat sports should be banned due to the risk of concussion? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below.

References:

• British Journal of Sports Medicine, "Incidence of concussion in professional boxing", https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/early/2018/09/13/bjsports-2018-099850
• Journal of Neurotrauma, "Cognitive and Neurological Sequelae of Professional Boxing", https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/neu.2010.1619
• Journal of Athletic Training, "Incidence of concussion in collegiate wrestling", https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4016436/
• Journal of Athletic Training, "Effectiveness of Headgear in Reducing the Incidence of Concussion in Amateur Boxing", https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4946221/
• Journal of Athletic Training, "Management of Sport-Related Concussion: A Review", https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4016436/