Grappling with skin infections: A wrestler’s guide to prevention and treatment

November 5, 2024

How to protect yourself from wrestling and martial arts skin infections

The thrill of victory in wrestling and martial arts comes with one unfortunate side effect – the risk of skin infections. Close contact, sweat-drenched training sessions, and shared equipment can quickly turn the dojo or wrestling room into a breeding ground for these sidelining skin conditions.

Skin infections are not just a minor inconvenience in combat sports; they can significantly impact an athlete’s journey. Studies show that skin infections are responsible for up to 20% of lost training and competition time. In the USA, these infections are the second leading cause of medical consultations among young wrestlers, highlighting their prevalence and disruptive nature.

But there’s hope. DuraDerm SPORT, a trusted solution used by elite athletes at the UFC Performance Institute, can be your secret weapon for prevention and treatment, helping you stay in the fight and achieve your athletic goals.

This guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to protect yourself, prevent infections, and promote healing, so you can focus on what truly matters: mastering your skills and achieving victory.

What’s in this guide:

Why combat sports are a breeding ground for skin infections
Common skin infections in wrestling and martial arts
Prevention strategies: Your first line of defense
DuraDerm SPORT: Your ally in the fight
The importance of adherence to rules and regulations
Fight back against infections: Stay on the mat, not on the sidelines

Why combat sports are a breeding ground for skin infections

The intense physicality and close quarters of wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), and other mixed martial arts (MMA) create a perfect storm for skin infections. Here’s why:

Close contact: The very nature of wrestling and martial arts involves constant skin-to-skin contact, providing a direct pathway for the transmission of bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
Warm, moist environments: Sweat and humidity create the perfect environment for microbes to thrive, increasing the risk of infection.
Skin abrasions: Mat burns, scrapes, and other minor injuries create entry points for pathogens, making athletes more susceptible to infections.
Shared equipment: Mats, gloves, and other training gear can harbor infectious agents, facilitating their spread among athletes.

Common skin infections in wrestling and martial arts

Wrestlers and martial artists are particularly prone to a variety of skin infections that can disrupt
training and competition. Let’s explore some of the most common culprits:

Viral infections: Herpes gladiatorum, or “mat herpes,” is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1).
Fungal infections: Ringworm (tinea) and athlete’s foot are common fungal infections that thrive in moist environments. They present as itchy, red, and often ring-shaped rashes.
Bacterial infections: Staph and strep bacteria can cause impetigo, a contagious skin infection. If left untreated, these infections can develop into the more severe and antibiotic-resistant MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), which can present with painful abscesses and even lead to very serious complications.

Prevention strategies: Your first line of defense

The best way to combat skin infections in combat sports is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Implementing these proactive strategies can significantly reduce your risk:

Hygiene practices: Shower immediately after training with antimicrobial soap, wash your gear regularly, and avoid sharing personal items like towels and razors.
Protective gear: Wear rash guards, spats, or a gi to minimize skin-to-skin contact and protect against abrasions.
Mat and equipment sanitation: Ensure that mats and training equipment are cleaned and disinfected regularly to prevent the spread of pathogens.
Awareness and early detection: Be vigilant for any signs of skin infection, such as redness, itching, or unusual bumps. Seek medical advice promptly if you suspect an infection.

DuraDerm SPORT: Your ally in the fight

When sidelining skin injuries do occur, having a reliable treatment like DuraDerm SPORT on hand is crucial. This advanced healing solution is the official infection prevention partner of the UFC Performance Institute and is trusted by some of the world’s toughest fighters to combat skin conditions like mat herpes, ringworm, athlete’s foot, staph, strep, and even MRSA. If it’s tough enough for the Octagon, it’s tough enough for your training.

How it works: DuraDerm SPORT is an advanced liquid bandage that forms a protective barrier over minor cuts, scrapes, and abrasions. Its antimicrobial properties have been proven to kill a broad spectrum of pathogens on contact, including many of the CDC’s most serious threats, promoting a clean healing environment and minimizing the risk of infection.
Benefits:
- Prevents infection of skin wounds
- Seals and protects the area
- Aids in the healing process
- Can be used on various skin conditions
- Convenient and easy to apply, even on hard-to-reach areas
- Can be used under your usual tapes, wraps or gloves
- Flexible to move with your body, will not hinder movement or performance

The importance of adherence to rules and regulations

Protecting yourself and your teammates goes beyond personal hygiene and wound care. It’s essential to be aware of and adhere to the rules and regulations set forth by athletic organizations to prevent the spread of skin infections in wrestling and martial arts.

Skin checks and disqualification: Many athletic organizations have strict rules regarding skin infections, including mandatory skin checks and potential disqualification from competition.
Importance of reporting infections: Reporting any suspected skin infections to your coach or athletic trainer is crucial. Prompt treatment can prevent the spread of infection to teammates and opponents.

Fight back against infections: Stay on the mat, not on the sidelines

Skin infections are an unfortunate reality in the world of wrestling and martial arts. However, with proper prevention strategies and the use of effective solutions like DuraDerm SPORT, you can minimize your risk and stay in the fight. Remember, prioritizing skin health isn’t just about avoiding time off the mat; it’s about protecting yourself and your training partners.

Stay in the fight with DuraDerm SPORT!