The origins of martial arts vary by location. There is evidence of the practice of ancient forms of martial arts in Greece, Egypt, Mesopotamia, Vietnam, China, Africa, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Japan, Korea, Italy, Philippines, Germany, Netherlands, Spain, Iraq, among other places. Today, the martial arts have become a significant industry, with hundreds of millions of people worldwide practicing some form of martial art. In the United States, “mixed martial arts” or “MMA” is becoming very popular.

A wide array of injuries can occur from participating in the martial arts. Each type of martial art predisposes the practitioner to a particular set of injuries, which is also affected by the equipment, rules, and techniques used. Overuse injuries are common. Concussions, and injuries to the nose, ears, and eyes are common as well. Martial artists may sustain cuts, bruises, and lacerations. Skull, facial, and nasal fractures may occur. Neck abrasions and bruising in martial arts that allow choking are common. Injuries to martial artists’ extremities include cuts, bruises, and various sprains and strains. Joint locking and throwing techniques may lead to dislocations and fractures in various parts of the body.