What Are the Most Common Wrestling Injuries?

A Guide for Parents and Wrestlers

Wrestling is an intense and physically demanding sport that requires strength, endurance, and mental toughness. Like any sport, wrestling carries some risk of injury, but when practiced with proper technique, conditioning, and safety measures, the risk can be minimized. Understanding the most common wrestling injuries, their causes, and how to prevent them will help keep wrestlers healthy and performing at their best.

This guide will discuss the most common injuries in wrestling, how they occur, and what wrestlers can do to prevent them.

1. Skin Infections (Ringworm, Staph, Impetigo)

How It Happens:

Wrestling is a close-contact sport that takes place on shared mats, making skin infections one of the most common health concerns. Bacteria and fungi thrive in warm, sweaty environments, which means that improper hygiene or unclean mats can increase the risk of infections such as:

• Ringworm: A contagious fungal infection that appears as a red, circular rash.

• Staph Infection (MRSA): A bacterial infection that can become serious if not treated quickly.

• Impetigo: A highly contagious bacterial skin infection that causes blisters or sores.

Prevention:

• Wrestlers should shower immediately after practice or matches using antibacterial soap.

• Mats should be cleaned and disinfected daily to reduce bacteria and fungi.

• Wrestlers should avoid sharing towels, headgear, and clothing with teammates.

• Coaches and referees should conduct skin checks before tournaments to identify any infections early.

2. Sprains and Strains (Ankles, Knees, Shoulders, Wrists)

How It Happens:

Wrestling involves explosive movements, quick directional changes, and high levels of physical exertion. This can lead to sprains (ligament injuries) and strains (muscle or tendon injuries), particularly in the:

• Ankles: From improper foot positioning or rolling an ankle during a takedown.

• Knees: From twisting movements or resisting an opponent’s attack.

• Shoulders and Wrists: From being taken down or breaking a fall improperly.

Prevention:

• Proper warm-ups and stretching before practice help prepare muscles and joints.

• Strength training, especially focusing on stability and joint support, reduces injury risk.

• Wrestlers should learn proper falling techniques to absorb impact safely.

3. Concussions

How It Happens:

Concussions are less common in wrestling than in football or soccer, but they can still occur from head-to-mat impact, accidental collisions, or being thrown off balance. A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a sudden impact to the head, leading to symptoms such as:

• Dizziness or confusion

• Headaches

• Sensitivity to light or noise

• Nausea or balance problems

Prevention:

• Coaches should teach wrestlers how to fall and protect their head when being taken down.

• Wearing properly fitted headgear can help absorb some impact.

• Wrestlers should never return to competition too soon after experiencing concussion symptoms—medical clearance is essential.

4. Cauliflower Ear

How It Happens:

Cauliflower ear is caused by repeated friction, impact, or trauma to the ear, leading to swelling, fluid buildup, and permanent hardening of the ear tissue. Wrestlers who do not wear headgear are particularly at risk.

Prevention:

• Always wear properly fitted headgear during practice and matches.

• If an ear becomes swollen, seek medical attention immediately to drain the fluid before it hardens.

• Ice and compression can help reduce swelling after a match.

5. Knee Injuries (Meniscus Tears, ACL and MCL Injuries)

How It Happens:

The knee is one of the most vulnerable joints in wrestling. Common knee injuries include:

• Meniscus Tears: Occur when twisting the knee awkwardly, leading to pain and swelling.

• ACL/MCL Injuries: Ligament injuries caused by hyperextension, twisting, or direct impact. These can require months of recovery if severe.

Prevention:

• Strengthen leg muscles, especially quadriceps and hamstrings, to provide knee support.

• Wear knee pads to reduce impact and friction on the mat.

• Avoid excessive twisting or unnatural knee movements.

6. Shoulder Injuries (Dislocations, Rotator Cuff Tears)

How It Happens:

Wrestlers frequently use their shoulders for takedowns, escapes, and defensive moves. Shoulder injuries can happen from:

• Being thrown to the mat or landing awkwardly.

• Overextending the shoulder during a move.

• Repeated strain from pushing and pulling movements.

Prevention:

• Strength training focused on shoulder stability and rotator cuff muscles reduces the risk of injury.

• Proper warm-ups and dynamic stretching before practice help maintain flexibility.

• Learning safe breakfall techniques minimizes impact injuries.

7. Back and Neck Injuries

How It Happens:

Back and neck injuries often occur when wrestlers:

• Attempt to lift or throw an opponent improperly.

• Experience excessive strain on the neck during bridging movements.

• Fall awkwardly from a takedown.

Prevention:

• Strengthening core and back muscles improves spinal support.

• Coaches should emphasize proper lifting techniques to prevent strain.

• Wrestlers should avoid bridging on the neck for long periods to reduce pressure.

How to Reduce the Risk of Wrestling Injuries

While wrestling is a physically demanding sport, most injuries can be prevented or minimized with proper preparation and safety practices. Here are key steps to reduce injury risk:

1. Focus on Proper Technique

• Wrestlers should learn how to fall, sprawl, and take down an opponent safely.

• Coaches should reinforce correct positioning to avoid unnecessary injuries.

2. Maintain Strength and Conditioning

• Strength training improves joint stability and reduces the likelihood of strains or sprains.

• Conditioning workouts help build endurance, reducing fatigue-related injuries.

3. Wear Protective Gear

• Headgear protects ears from cauliflower ear and minor head trauma.

• Knee pads reduce mat burns and joint strain.

• Mouthguards protect teeth and the jaw from accidental impacts.

4. Prioritize Hygiene and Skin Care

• Wrestlers should shower immediately after practice.

• Mats and gear should be cleaned regularly.

• Coaches and referees should check for skin infections before competition.

5. Listen to the Body and Rest When Needed

• Wrestling is intense, and proper rest and recovery are essential.

• If a wrestler feels pain, dizziness, or joint discomfort, they should seek medical attention early rather than pushing through an injury.

Wrestling Can Be Safe with Proper Precautions

While wrestling is a physically demanding sport, it is safe when practiced correctly. The most common injuries—such as sprains, strains, and skin infections—can be prevented with good hygiene, proper technique, and protective equipment.

By prioritizing strength training, injury prevention, and good hygiene habits, wrestlers can stay healthy and perform at their best. Parents should ensure their child is properly equipped, well-conditioned, and following safety protocols to enjoy the benefits of wrestling while staying injury-free.

With the right preparation, wrestling teaches not only physical strength and discipline but also mental toughness and resilience—skills that benefit young athletes for life.