Boxing training Injuries

With the introduction of boxing training in personal training sessions and gym classes we are starting to see a new variety of injury presentations at the practice.

Serratus Anterior

 

An interesting muscle which is used heavily when striking a glove or a training bag. This muscle is the Serratus Anterior. It has an insertion on the medial border of the scapula or shoulder blade and fans out like a Hand of Bananas to attach on the ribs. This muscle combined with the Pec Minor, Pec Major and the Anterior deltoids actively pull the whole arm forward when striking. On the actual strike force is generated which then must be absorbed all the way back along the arm into the shoulder girdle and the thorax and Cervical or neck muscles and the Trapezius.

For an interesting look at this anatomy and strengthening exercises for the Serratus Anterior muscle visit the following sites:

http://www.menshealth.com/mhlists/powerful_small_muscles/Serratus_anterior.php

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-tlcuAKTr1Y

Potential problems

Boxing training problems that we are beginning to see more commonly are, shoulder chest and rib injuries. Displaced ribs and vertebrae, soft tissue problems such as acute muscle swelling from overuse and poor stretching regimes. Altered Rotator cuff function due to scapular displacement. Inflammation of the periosteum and tendons where muscles attach. Altered thoracic posture from muscle imbalance.

Occasionally from dipping quickly when tired there have been some disc prolapses as a direct result of training towards the end of a workout.

Advice

  • Develop a good stretching routine to cover all the chest back and shoulder muscles
  • Be careful to introduce the boxing gradually as part of training regime, adding more minutes over several sessions
  • If in doubt come into the clinic for a check out and get ahead of potential problems.
  • Take two days at least between box training workouts.
  • Have regular Sports massage http://theosteopath.net/sports-injuries/sports-massage/
  • Take two days at least between box training workouts.