In wrestling, all of those twists, turns, and take downs can take a toll on your body, putting wrestlers at risk for everything from torn ligaments to skin infections to bloody noses. Not fun! Monica Surguine, a member of our Delaware ATI Sports Medicine team, noted that wrestling can be a generally “crazy” sport in terms of injuries.
“Anything can happen at any time,” Monica says. “You never really know what’s next.”
Common Wrestling Injuries
Even though the sport may be a bit unpredictable, our athletic trainer weighed in on the most common injuries and how to try to prevent them.
Wrestling Skin Infections
“Cauliflower Ear” (a deformity of the outer ear, often caused by trauma to the head) and ringworm are some of the most common wrestling injuries, says Monica. Many skin infections result from unclean mats and poor hygiene, so it’s important to wash your hands and maintain proper hygiene as a wrestler. In addition, Monica suggests wearing proper head gear to help prevent issues like Cauliflower Ear. Here are a few other ways to prevent skin infections:
- Shower immediately after practice or a match.
- Clean equipment daily. Use bleach for your head gear and knee pads.
- Put dirty clothes in a separate bag after a match or game, and avoid mixing dirty clothes in with your clean ones.
- Cover all abrasions and lacerations with a bandage.
Ligament Tears
A wrong throw, plant, or step can cause an ACL, MCL, or other ligament tear. Unfortunately, there aren’t many ways to prevent a ligament tear, since they’re often quick and triggered by a swift movement. However, learning and practicing proper technique can help strengthen muscles to prevent injuries.
Facial Lacerations
From bloody noses to scratched cheeks to everything in between, wrestlers often suffer facial lacerations when they hit the mat. Although the sudden swipes and blows that cause facial injuries are largely unpredictable, proper technique may help prevent injury.