Kickboxing Dangers

Kickboxing is an exciting way to burn calories and get a purpose-driven workout. Not only will you tone up and shed excess pounds, you will also learn skills that you can use to defend yourself. For the more adventurous, practicing the sport of kickboxing in the ring can become a hobby. Regardless of what your intentions are when taking up the sport (competition, self-defense or just exercise), you should be aware of the dangers of kickboxing.

  1. Fractures

    • Fractures can be acquired in just about any sport. However, high-impact contact sports such as kickboxing present specific dangers, even if you aren't training competitively. The foot and ankle are particularly susceptible to fractures because of the amount of time they spend hitting the bag. The most common fractures are the toes and the bones immediately behind them (metatarsals). If you injure your foot or any other bone enough that you can't put pressure on it, go to a doctor to get X-rays taken. You may have fractured something.

    Dislocation

    • Kickboxing carri0es the danger of dislocation of both the bones from their sockets as well as tendon dislocation. Toes and fingers are frequent subjects of dislocation, so it is important to wear the proper safety gear, even when your opponent is a bag. The most common tendon dislocated is the peroneal tendon, which runs down your leg. This injury feels a bit like an ankle sprain but is more serious. An ankle sprain that doesn't get better in a reasonable time frame should be looked at by a qualified professional to make sure it is not a dislocated peroneal tendon.

    Concussions

    • Concussions occur when the brain hits the skull hard enough. This is a danger when competitive kickboxing or sparring occurs. Some signs that a participant has a concussion include dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, slurred speech and a headache. You should never train while suffering from a concussion, and if a concussion lasts longer than 15 minutes or results in unconsciousness, you should cease competition and training for at least a full week. Discuss any training plans with a doctor before making the decision to return to the gym.

    Hematoma

    • Hematomas are common injuries in kickboxing and other martial arts. Hemotomas are swelling related to internal bleeding, most commonly caused in kickboxing by the repeated blows involved in punching and kicking drills. Taking a rest and putting ice on the injury is the best way of dealing with it. However, if you notice things like severe pain and cold toes, it is best to see a medical professional. Complications from hematomas include comparment syndrome, which can involve the amputation of the affected area.