Importance of Skin Checks and Evaluations in High School Wrestlers

As we approach wresting season, it is crucial to remember the importance of skin checks. Due to the competitive nature of the sport and the unavoidable demand for skin-to-skin contact, skin infections can run rampant if not detected early. The NCAA Injury Surveillance System indicates 15% of all practice time loss in wrestling is due to skin conditions. These conditions can be bacterial or viral and almost always require doctor consultation and a form of treatment. Ringworm, MRSA, Staph, herpes and impetigo rank as the top five most common skin infections in High School wrestling.

According to the CDC, there are five ways that bacterial skin infections can be spread. They refer to this as the five C’s: Crowding, contact, compromised skin (cuts, abrasions, mat burns), contaminated items (sweaty clothes, mats, etc.), cleanliness. Unfortunately, a sport like wrestling frequently presents all five C’s. The good news is skin infections are preventable with proper hygiene and care.

While there is tremendous amounts of money, time and effort spent disinfecting surfaces such as mats, towels, equipment, etc., hospital research has shown that protecting the skin is the most effective way in preventing the occurrence and spread of infections. Consistent and optimized hygiene approach is the best way to reduce the incidence of skin infections in wrestling. These practices include but are not limited to:

• Shower immediately. The longer you wait to shower after practices and matches, the more time harmful germs have to stay and grow on your skin. Consider using an antibacterial liquid soap.

• Check your body daily for anything out of the norm. Look for signs of redness, pimples or boils, or anything causing itching, swelling or pain.

• Cut your nails. Certain types of bacteria and fungi may live underneath the fingernails and be transmitted from wrestler to wrestler.

• Wear clean gear daily. It is crucial to wear clean clothing to each and every practice. It is also suggested to bring an additional pair of clean clothing to change into after practice.

• Cover all wounds. Mat burns and cuts are a common part of wrestling. Make sure to cover these open wounds before every practice to prevent infection.

If any signs or symptoms of skin infections occur, make sure to notify your coach and athletic trainer immediately. The sooner these infections are recognized and treated, the less likely it is to spread to others on the team. Coaches should continuously remind athletes of the importance of proper hygiene and equipment cleaning, and encourage transparency when it comes to reporting skin infections.

http://www.nwcaonline.com/skin-mat-protecting-important-surface/

http://fayettevilleyouthwrestling.com/wrestling-hygiene-tips/