Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a full-contact combat sport that involves a variety of punches, kicks, limb blocks and throws. As a result, bone fractures are fairly common in MMA competitions. The severity of these fractures can range from minor to total breaks. The most common bone to break in MMA is the hand behind the third and fourth knuckles.
The second most common is the nose, due to being hit in the face. The third most common are orbital fractures around the eye sockets. UFC fighters often suffer from nasal fractures both in the gym and in the octagon. Athletes wear minimal protective equipment, making them more susceptible to injury.
During fights, bones can withstand a great deal of stress, which can cause them to break. Common areas of bone fractures include the arms, elbows, hands and tibia. Facial fractures such as the orbital bone and nose are also common. Treatment for bone fractures varies depending on the type of damage. Minor fractures may be placed in a cast to heal and reposition.
More serious fractures may require surgery to place nails, screws or rods. It's true that MMA fighters use brutal techniques to condition their shins, but they don't break their bones voluntarily. Swinging the leg with great force against a shin resting on the floor is too common to cause a fracture. It's very rare for MMA fighters to go through their careers without suffering one or more broken bones. Knee injuries are also very common in MMA due to the multiple positions the knee must be in when athletes fight. MMA fighters can often break small bones in their hands by throwing punches and even defending them. If one of the fighters has broken his nose and is clearly standing, the doctor may ask that the fight be stopped so he can receive medical treatment. If you're thinking about starting to train MMA, don't worry about breaking your bones.
There are many ways to reduce the risk of breaking your nose during training, but the worst injuries happen on fight night when your opponent is there to eliminate you.
