This post covers most sports injuries but I am focusing on those sustained in Boxing. I have many friends and acquaintances who box as well as frequenting York Hall in my youth and I have to say it is not something that I enjoy, mainly because of the trauma and impact it has on the body, although it is hard not to get swept up in the showmanship when sitting ringside.

I have treated many people for sports injuries with Bowen and I cannot stress how amazing it is and can be especially for boxing and I shall explain why. Bowen works on fascia, the integral network that interacts with every system in the body. It is perfect for all sport injuries as there is no forceful manipulation, the technique is subtle enough not to cause further damage yet powerfully effective to treat the source of pain. It can be used immediately – even over swollen or inflamed areas.

The technique works on soft tissue and muscle which heal twice as fast with Bowen Therapy as they do with traditional treatments, it is a very popular method of care used by sports professionals ranging from tennis, football, squash, rugby as well as boxing. It helps players recover faster from injury as well as having treatment as a preventative measure to keep players at their peak and reduce the risk of injury occurring.

Particular conditions that respond well to treatment include torn muscles, musculoskeletal conditions, inflamed or restricted joints or tendons.

The main injuries caused by boxing are as follows:

• Jaw & Facial Injuries – An impact to the jaw can cause facial fractures or TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint). This can also impact the pelvis and front fascia.
• Shoulder Injuries – common problems with over extension could cause rotator cuff trauma or brachial plexus impingement, as well as dislocation.
• Hand and Wrist Injuries – constant impacts will cause the writs and hands to become vulnerable to fractures and soft tissue damage.
• Ankle, Knee & Leg Injuries – Hamstring, ankle, knee traumas can also cause fractures, tendonitis or bursitis.
• Neck, Back & Rib Injuries – Posture and stance is so important to spine health as well as the core muscles or the psoas muscle. Boxing can cause strain to the ribs and intercostals as well as any punching from the opponent.
• Kidney Damage – although it is now illegal to punch in the kidneys it can sometimes occur, which can cause severe damage.
• The final and most obvious is head and brain trauma A punch to the head will shake the brain within the skull which can cause concussion resulting in dizziness, nausea, lack of coordination among other symptoms.

It is always recommended medical advice is sought after if there are any health concerns, especially with head and brain trauma.

For all injuries, Bowen is a fantastic tool to bring clarity to the mind, reduce blood pressure and heal the body, it allows the body to ‘re-set’ after the effects of stress on the physical and mental. Stress places the body in constant state of alarm, Bowen Therapy allows the body to switch over to the parasympathetic nervous system which aids in rest and repair. Apart from anything else it is so useful to prepare before a fight, to allow one to focus, improve respiration and hydrate fascia ready for the battle ahead. It is also worth recognising that physical and mental exhaustion will be another symptom of boxing, especially if a fight is lost, emotional high and lows of pre and post fight are par the course as well as adrenal fatigue.

A Bowensense session will also advise on how to hydrate fascia in training and at home to back up and boost the effects in clinic. For further details contact info@mariereynoldslondon.com