Analysis of cerebral concussion in combat sports

Abstract

Introduction: Through the action of external biomechanical forces that cause a change in brain acceleration within the braincase, there is the possibility of a change in mental state. This may be accompanied by a brief period of amnesia known as cerebral concussion. For a concussion to be characterized, it is not necessary for there to be loss of consciousness. In combat sports, this change occurs frequently and deserves attention to preserve the integrity of the athletes. Objective: To analyze the levels of cerebral concussion in combat athletes: kickboxing , muay thai , boxing and mixed martial arts ( mma ) after impact to the braincase. Material and methods : This research has a semi-qualitative approach characterized as a clinical trial and analyzed the levels of cerebral concussion using the SCAT3 behavioral study . Results: Moderate physical, cognitive and emotional symptoms were found in boxing, MMA and k1. Severe symptoms were also found in k1 athletes, not being predominant during sleep. And, the muay group thai showed statistical differences for physical and cognitive classifications, which suggest that cerebral concussion occurred. Glove specifications, the use of head protectors and the period in which the athlete is exposed to repeated blows to the head become determining factors in quantifying concussion levels in combat athletes. Conclusion: The changes found point to an important cerebral concussion in combat sports, especially in the physical and mental aspects of muay athletes Thai .

DOI:https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2024.006-023