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, the Netherlands, Spain and Iraq, among other places. Today, martial arts have become a significant industry, with hundreds of millions of people worldwide practicing some form of martial arts. In the United States, “mixed martial arts” or “MMA” is becoming very popular.
 

A wide array of injuries can occur from participating in 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.
 

AMSSM Member Author: George G.A. Pujalte, MD