Sparring Injuries

Damaged Liver

The liver is under the right rib cage. Although the liver is stronger than the spleen, a blow to the right ribs can tear its surface. If the damage is severe, surgery may be needed to repair the tear and stop the bleeding or to remove part of the liver. Any suspected liver damage should be seen by a doctor immediately.

Damage to other Abdominal Organs

The stomach or intestines may be injured by heavy blows to the abdomen. Bruising these organs can cause bleeding in their lining. See a doctor immediately if you suspect internal bleeding.

A blow to the solar plexus, which is a nerve center in the abdomen, may short-circuit the nervous system causing a knockout. Usually, nerve function is restored within a few minutes. If this happens to you while sparring, rest until you feel normal and then pick up where you left off.

Wrist Injuries

A fighter may sprain wrist ligaments by hitting an opponent or the heavy bag. If you sprain your wrist, rest it for two to three weeks, or longer if it remains painful, icing it intermittently. You may also need to have it splinted by a doctor to allow the ligaments to heal, which takes about three weeks. 

The small bones of the wrist may slide out of place if the ligaments holding them together are partially torn. This partial dislocation, which often is the result of constantly hitting the heavy bag, causes pain at the base of the hand when you hit. This is a serious injury that requires surgical repair.