Nutrition in Combat Sports

10 Children in Combat Sports 169
of IM from minor trauma to the left upper quadrant or from sudden increase in intraabdominal
pressure. Rupture has also occurred spontaneously in IM. [54] Clinical
signs and symptoms of rupture include left upper quadrant abdominal pain, pain that
radiates to the left shoulder, peritoneal irritation, and shock.
Although definitive studies on return-to-play in IM are lacking, [57] some
authors have recommended algorithms based on the natural history of splenic rupture
in this condition. Auwaerter suggests waiting a minimum of 3 weeks before
returning to noncontact sports, and 4 weeks for return to contact sports if the child
is clinically well, and normal spleen size is documented by ultrasound. [57]
Laboratory values should return to normal prior to return-to-play.
10.7 Conclusion
There are risks and benefits to childhood participation in any contact or collision
sport. In combat sports, measures must be taken to minimize risks, allowing the
child to realize the benefits in a safe, fun environment. The author believes that
children should not engage in full-contact sparring, and no contact should be permitted
to the head. Careful supervision of children in practices and enforcement of
rules of safety in tournaments may reduce the risk of injury while promoting enjoyment
of the sport. In addition to the general benefits of sport participation, such as
fun, fitness, and improved self-esteem, combat sports foster development of selfdefense
skills. Traditional martial arts, in particular, may have very positive influences
on behavior.
Further Reading
American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Sports Medicine and Fitness:
Medical conditions affecting sports participation. Pediatrics. 2001; 107(5): 1205–9
Auwaerter PG. Infectious mononucleosis: return to play. Clin Sports Med. 2004;
23(3): 485–97.
Pieter W. Martial arts injuries. In: Caine DJ, Maffulli N (eds) Epidemiology of
Pediatric Sports Injuries. Individual Sports. Med Sport Sci. Basel, Karger, 2005,
vol 48, pp 59–73.
Purcell L. Sport readiness in children and youth. Paediatr Child Health. 2005;
10(6): 343–4.
Web site
http://www.totalfitnesssolutions.com/kidsmartialartsintro.html