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Morbidity and mortality in the martial arts: a warning
The Journal of Trauma
|February 1, 1991
Summary
Martial arts participation carries risks, with serious neurologic injuries being a significant concern. This study highlights injury data from Tae Kwon Do events, recommending safety improvements to reduce harm.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Traumatology
- Kinesiology
Background:
- Millions of Americans engage in martial arts annually.
- Medical coverage over a decade reveals numerous injury anecdotes.
- Existing literature lacks comprehensive data on martial arts-related injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze injury patterns in martial arts participation.
- To identify specific risks, particularly neurologic injuries.
- To propose evidence-based recommendations for injury prevention.
Main Methods:
- Review of 10 years of medical coverage data.
- Inclusion of injury data from two national Tae Kwon Do tournaments (adult and junior).
- Analysis of previously unreported injury cases, including a fatality.
Main Results:
- Significant injury frequency observed across martial arts participants.
- Identification of severe injuries, including fatalities and potential neurologic damage.
- Tae Kwon Do participation shows a notable incidence of trauma.
Conclusions:
- Martial arts participation presents inherent dangers requiring attention.
- Neurologic injuries are a critical concern demanding specific preventive strategies.
- Implementing safety recommendations can mitigate injury severity and frequency.