Дарчинян А. Injuries in boxing: prevention and recovery // Science Time. 2023. 10 (117). С. 28-32.

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INJURIES IN BOXING: PREVENTION AND RECOVERY

Darchinyan Arman,
Professional Boxer,

Los Angeles, USA

Abstract. Boxing is one of the most spectacular, but also the most traumatic sports. This article discusses the main types of injuries in boxing, methods of their prevention, as well as modern approaches to the rehabilitation of athletes. Particular attention is paid to the latest medical and physiotherapeutic methods aimed at accelerating recovery and preventing recurrent injuries. Statistical data on the frequency of injuries among boxers, as well as the impact of the training process on the risk of injury, are also analyzed.

Key words: boxing, training, conditioning, endurance, strength, power.

Introduction

Boxing is a contact sport in which athletes are exposed to significant physical stress and impacts. Despite strict control of the rules, the use of protective equipment and the improvement of training methods, the risk of injury remains high. The most common injuries in boxing are bruises, cuts, concussions, damage to joints and bone structures. There are methods to reduce the risk of injury, but it is impossible to completely eliminate them. Injuries in boxing are associated not only with the actual conduct of fights, but also with the training process. Intensive training, repeated blows to the bag and sparring can lead to cumulative damage, which over time can develop into chronic problems. Long-term stress on joints, ligaments and muscles, including frequent blows to the head, can have a long-term impact on the health of athletes. In this regard, injury prevention is one of the key tasks of both coaches and boxers themselves.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are the most dangerous injuries that boxers face. Among the most common consequences are concussions, which are accompanied by headaches, dizziness, nausea, and loss of consciousness. Repeated concussions increase the risk of developing chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which can lead to cognitive impairment, memory loss, and even dementia. The long-term impact of blows to the head makes this issue especially relevant for boxers who have a large number of fights and training sparring.

Unlike other types of injuries, traumatic brain injuries are often cumulative. Even if an athlete does not experience obvious symptoms after a blow, microscopic damage to nerve tissue can lead to a cumulative effect. This is especially dangerous in professional boxing, where athletes are exposed to multiple blows to the head throughout their careers. Modern neuroscience research shows that preventing TBI requires a comprehensive approach. Including specific exercises to strengthen the neck muscles, using helmets with enhanced protection, and limiting sparring with heavy blows all help reduce the likelihood of head injuries.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries such as bruises, hematomas and cuts are the most common injuries among boxers. Punches to the face and body cause breaks in the skin, which requires immediate medical attention. Cuts can cause severe bleeding, which in some cases leads to the fight being stopped. It is important to understand that frequent bruises and hematomas can lead to changes in the structure of the tissue, which increases the likelihood of further injuries in the future. Therefore, rehabilitation procedures such as physical therapy and massage play an important role in preventing further injuries.

Frequent skin and soft tissue injuries require the use of special protection methods. One way to prevent this is to apply Vaseline to the face before a fight, which reduces the risk of cuts. It is also important to pay attention to skin care and the use of proper wound care techniques to minimize inflammation.

Physiotherapy methods such as ultrasound and laser therapy can speed up the healing of soft tissues. Compresses and cooling gels are also effective in reducing inflammation and pain. A competent approach to recovery helps not only to heal wounds faster, but also to prevent their recurrence.

Injuries to the musculoskeletal system

Injuries to the musculoskeletal system include facial bone fractures, hand and wrist injuries, dislocations and ligament damage. The hands are particularly vulnerable areas, as they bear a lot of stress during strikes. Incorrect striking technique and insufficient protection of the hands can lead to chronic pain and degenerative changes in the joints. To minimize these risks, it is necessary to pay attention to strengthening the ligamentous apparatus and controlling the technique of performing strikes.

Experts recommend special training to strengthen the joints and ligaments. The use of rubber expanders, working with weights and exercises to develop fine motor skills help to increase the resistance of joints to stress. Regular monitoring of the condition of bones and joints with the help of medical examinations is also an important factor.

In case of fractures and dislocations, rehabilitation can take a long time. Modern treatment methods include the use of orthopedic fixators, which speed up recovery. Shock wave therapy and physiotherapy methods are also actively used, which promote faster healing of damaged tissues.

Psychological Trauma in Boxing

In addition to physical injuries, boxers often face psychological trauma. Constant blows, the need to demonstrate a high level of endurance and competitive pressure can lead to stress, anxiety and depression. Losses and failures in fights can also cause emotional instability, which negatively affects the psychological state of the athlete.

Particular attention should be paid to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which occurs in some boxers after difficult fights or knockouts. Symptoms include nightmares, obsessive thoughts about defeat, decreased concentration and general nervousness. Without proper support, such conditions can lead to a refusal to continue sports activities.

To reduce the risk of psychological trauma, it is important to work with professional sports psychologists, meditation and relaxation techniques. Support from coaches and family also plays a significant role in restoring the mental health of boxers, helping them overcome fears and insecurities. Injury Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation plays a key role in a boxer’s return to training and competition. Injury recovery should include a comprehensive approach that includes medical treatment, physical therapy, proper nutrition, and psychological support.

The first stage of rehabilitation is medical care and diagnosis of injuries. Depending on the severity of the injury, medication, surgery, or the application of fixing bandages may be prescribed. It is important not to rush into returning to training to avoid re-injury.

Physiotherapy includes exercises to strengthen muscles, restore joint mobility, and improve coordination. Methods such as therapeutic massage, hydrotherapy, and electrical stimulation promote accelerated healing and prevent muscle atrophy. Additionally, recovery methods such as yoga, Pilates, and swimming are used to improve flexibility and endurance.

Nutrition plays an important role in rehabilitation. Consuming proteins, vitamins, and antioxidants helps restore tissue and strengthen the immune system. It is also important to monitor hydration levels, as dehydration can slow down the healing process and affect an athlete’s overall fitness.

Fig. 1

Injury Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation plays a key role in a boxer’s return to training and competition. Rehabilitation from injury should include a comprehensive approach that includes medical treatment, physical therapy, proper nutrition and psychological support.

The first stage of rehabilitation is medical care and diagnosis of injuries. Depending on the severity of the injury, medication, surgery or immobilization may be prescribed. It is important not to rush into returning to training to avoid re-injury.

Physiotherapy includes exercises to strengthen muscles, restore joint mobility and improve coordination. Methods such as therapeutic massage, hydrotherapy and electrical stimulation promote accelerated healing and prevent muscle atrophy. In addition, rehabilitation methods such as yoga, Pilates and swimming are used to improve flexibility and endurance.

Nutrition plays an important role in rehabilitation. Consuming proteins, vitamins and antioxidants helps restore tissue and strengthen the immune system. It is also important to monitor hydration levels, as dehydration can slow the healing process and affect an athlete's overall fitness.

Injury Prevention Methods

Comprehensive physical training plays a key role in injury prevention. Strengthening the neck muscles reduces the risk of concussions, while developing coordination and flexibility helps reduce the likelihood of dislocations and strains. Specific exercises aimed at developing endurance and strength help improve the body’s overall resistance to stress. Boxers should focus not only on strength training, but also on stretching and balance exercises, which reduce the likelihood of injury.

The use of protective equipment is a mandatory measure for injury prevention in boxing. A mouthguard protects the teeth and reduces the likelihood of jaw injuries, and also reduces the risk of concussion by cushioning the blows. A helmet protects the head from cuts and reduces the force of blows, but cannot completely prevent traumatic brain injuries. Bandages and gloves play an important role in protecting the hands, preventing sprains and bone fractures. Learning proper striking and defense techniques helps reduce the likelihood of injury. Developing the skills to dodge and block blows is important. Proper stance, head position, and proper weight distribution during attack and defense significantly reduce the likelihood of injury. Many injuries occur due to improper technique, so regular training with experienced trainers helps minimize the risk of serious injury.

Fig. 2

Conclusion

Boxing injuries are an inevitable part of the sport, but a competent approach to their prevention and recovery can significantly reduce the risks. The use of protective equipment, proper striking technique, physical training and modern rehabilitation methods can minimize the consequences of injuries. Regular medical supervision and an individual approach to training will help athletes maintain health and extend their sports careers.

In addition to physical injuries, the psychological aspects of boxing injuries cannot be ignored. Working with psychologists, meditation and support from coaches and family help athletes cope with emotional difficulties and maintain motivation. Ultimately, a balanced approach to physical and mental health will allow boxers to achieve high results and ensure long-term development in sports.

References:

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3. Jordan, B. D. (2009). Chronic traumatic brain injury associated with boxing. Seminars in Neurology, 29(5), 529-535.

4. American Association of Neurological Surgeons. (2020). Sports-related head injury. Neurosurgery Today.

5. Smith, D. H., & Meaney, D. F. (2011). Axonal damage in concussion. Neuroscientist, 17(3), 278-293.