A Narrative Review of Combat Sports Injuries With a Particular Focus on Cervical Spine Injuries
2024

Combat Sports Injuries: Focus on Cervical Spine Injuries

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Muacevic Alexander, Adler John R, Bakirtzis Dimitrios, Gkiafi Zoi, Sioutis Spyridon, Tolis Ioannis Panagiotis, Zikopoulos Alexandros, Lykoudis Panagis M, Kontogeorgakos Vasileios A, Mavrogenis Andreas, Koulalis Dimitrios

Primary Institution: National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Attikon Hospital, Athens, GRC

Conclusion

Combat sports present unique injury risks, particularly to the cervical spine, necessitating tailored prevention and management strategies.

Supporting Evidence

  • Combat sports have distinct injury patterns and mechanisms.
  • Head injuries are common in youth karate, especially among adolescent and female athletes.
  • Boxing is associated with a high prevalence of head and neck injuries.
  • Concussions are a significant concern in combat sports.
  • Preventive measures, including rule modifications and equipment enhancements, are essential for athlete safety.

Takeaway

Combat sports can hurt athletes, especially their necks, so it's important to find ways to keep them safe and help them recover.

Methodology

This is a narrative review summarizing various studies on injuries in combat sports, particularly focusing on cervical spine injuries.

Limitations

The review highlights a lack of comprehensive data on cervical spine injuries in combat sports, which hinders effective prevention strategies.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.7759/cureus.74980

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