3 Common Martial Arts Injuries And What Recovery Involves

Participating in martial arts is a great way to get fit and build your confidence. There are plenty of steps you can take to guard against injuries, like wearing headgear and only sparring against people in your weight class. However, even if you take these steps, there is a chance you'll become injured at some point. Therefore, it is helpful to know a little about the most common martial arts injuries and what recovering from each one involves. 

1. Concussions

Concussions can occur when you hit your head. Maybe you fall down onto the mat improperly. Perhaps you don't block effectively. Each of these could result in a contact injury to the head and a resulting concussion. Symptoms of a concussion include headache, visual disturbances, tiredness, and confusion. Note that you do not need to be knocked or experience memory loss in order to have a concussion.

Even if you think you may only have a mild concussion, you should visit the doctor. They can make sure you are not experiencing a brain bleed that could cause serious problems later on. For most concussions, treatment involves resting for a few days and staying away from bright lights. 

2. Bruised Hands and Feet

If you strike an opponent or service improperly, you will probably bruise your hand or foot. The pain may not be too terrible initially since your adrenaline is pumping, but later, you will notice that your hand or foot is throbbing and developing that characteristic blue appearance.

If you can still move your hand or foot without more than minor discomfort, you probably don't need to seek medical care. However, if there is pain when you move the appendage, you should see the doctor to make sure nothing is broken. If it is just a bruise, icing it for a few days and wrapping it when you work out should speed recovery.

3. Sprained Ankles

Sprained ankles can occur when you twist too quickly on the mat, or when you slide to the side when someone strikes you. You should have a sprained ankle checked out by a doctor since it's hard to tell on your own how serious it is. For mild sprains, a week off and some ice will be all you need. For more serious sprains, you may need to wear a brace, do some physical therapy, and take a month or two off from martial arts while you participate in a martial arts injury recovery program.

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