Boxing Injuries in Portugal: analysis of incidence, mechanisms, risk factors and injury preventive measures

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v67.112466

Keywords:

Boxing, Sports Injuries, Fighting, Sparring

Abstract

Introduction: Boxing is associated with a high rate of injuries and severe head trauma, where the head, shoulders, wrists and hands are the most affected regions of the body.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to quantify the incidence of boxing-related injuries and identify patterns and risk factors. Furthermore, the effectiveness of injury preventive measures and behavioral adaptations after injury were analyzed.

Methodology: A questionnaire was used to collect data divided into three parts: personal data, training and exposure experience and injuries.

Results: 583 questionnaires were analyzed. Results showed that 76% were male, and 70,5% had never competed. Sparring was the technique that led to 34,3% injuries, and inflammation was the most common injury (28,1%).

Discussion: Literature shows that the incidence of injury has decreased in amateur boxing in recent years, remaining in professional boxing. The incidence of injury is higher in professional boxing and sparring is the technique that leads to more injuries. Stretching appears to be the most common injury preventive measures after injury.

Conclusion: This study allows us to demonstrate that height, frequency of competition, level of competition and strength training are the factors most associated with the number of injuries in boxing.

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02-04-2025

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Original Research Article

How to Cite

Fernandes, R., Monteiro, D., Alexandre, Élio, Jacinto, M., Silva, F., Flores, G., Travassos, B., & Duarte-Mendes, P. (2025). Boxing Injuries in Portugal: analysis of incidence, mechanisms, risk factors and injury preventive measures. Retos, 67, 435-447. https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v67.112466