COMMON FINGER INJURIES IN GRAPPLING SPORTS: PREVENTION & MANAGEMENT

January 29, 2024

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In the world of grappling sports, which includes Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Judo, Wrestling, and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), athletes often face the risk of finger injuries. These sports require intense gripping, grappling, and often, intricate hand movements, making fingers particularly vulnerable. This blog post aims to discuss the typical finger injuries across these sports, their frequency, severity, recovery times, and prevention and management strategies, including insights from athletes across the grappling disciplines.

Title

In grappling, finger injuries are common but manageable. It's about being smart in training and recovery.

 

- Luca Lepri, BJJ Black Belt 

Title

COMMON FINGER INJURIES IN GRAPPLING SPORTS

Finger injuries are common across grappling disciplines and include:

  • Collateral Ligament Injuries: Often occur in sports like Judo and BJJ due to excessive twisting or bending of fingers.
  • Tendon Injuries: Caused by overuse or forceful gripping, prevalent in Wrestling and BJJ.
  • Joint Dislocations: A risk in all grappling sports, especially when fingers get caught in clothing or during takedowns.
  • Fractures: While less frequent, they can result from direct trauma in MMA or severe twisting in Wrestling and Judo.

STATISTICS ON INJURIES

Injury rates and severity can vary across grappling sports:

  • Studies indicate that around 30-40% of athletes in sports like BJJ and Judo report finger injuries.
  • Wrestlers and MMA fighters also experience a significant number of hand and finger injuries, although exact percentages vary.
  • Chronic issues develop in approximately 10-15% of these cases, leading to long-term complications if not properly addressed.

RECOVERY TIMES

Recovery depends on the injury's severity:

  • Minor sprains and strains may heal in a few weeks with rest and appropriate care.
  • Severe injuries like dislocations or fractures might require several months for full recovery.
  • Chronic conditions, such as tendonitis, often need ongoing management.
Title

In Judo, your grip is your lifeline. Protecting your fingers is crucial for longevity in the sport.

 

- Kayla "Judo Kayla" Harrison, 2 x Olympic Gold Medalist Judoka

Title

PREVENTION & MANAGEMENT

The below points are actions you can take to not only protect yourself but improve your grip strength for increased performance: 

  1. Proper Technique: Using Correct Grips

    Proper gripping techniques can significantly reduce the risk of finger injuries. This involves understanding the mechanics of each sport and the best practices for effective and safe gripping.

    Resources:
  2. Strength and Flexibility Training: Enhancing Finger, Hand, and Wrist Strength

    Strengthening and improving the flexibility of fingers, hands, and wrists can significantly decrease the likelihood of injuries.

    Resources:
  3. Protective Gear: Using Finger Tapes like Kakuto Finger Tape

    Finger tapes provide additional support and prevent hyperextensions during training and competitions.

    Resources:

Understanding and implementing these action points can greatly reduce the risk of finger injuries in grappling sports. By practicing proper techniques, engaging in targeted strength and flexibility training, and using appropriate protective gear, athletes can enhance their performance while safeguarding their health. For further information and guidance, explore the provided resources, and always consider seeking professional advice for specific concerns.

FOR MANAGEMENT

  • Rest and Recovery: Crucial for healing.
  • Ice, Compression, and Elevation: These can alleviate acute symptoms.
  • Physical Therapy: Professional advice can aid in rehabilitation and future injury prevention.
  • Taping: Utilizing supportive taping techniques during recovery and training.

IN CONCLUSION

Understanding, preventing, and managing finger injuries are essential aspects of training in grappling sports. While injuries might be part of the journey, their impact can be significantly reduced with the right knowledge and techniques. Remember, always consult a healthcare professional for severe or persistent injuries, and prioritize your health for a sustainable grappling career.

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Kakuto black finger tape 10 pack – non-elastic cotton athletic finger tape for grip support and finger protection during intense training
Kakuto white finger tape 10 pack – premium cotton finger tape designed for joint support, grip durability, and frequent training use
Kakuto black finger tape 5 pack – durable non-elastic finger tape for athletes needing reliable finger protection during regular training
Kakuto white finger tape 5 pack – breathable cotton finger tape for grip support and finger joint stability in everyday sessions
KAKUTO FINGER TAPE
KAKUTO FINGER TAPE
KAKUTO FINGER TAPE
KAKUTO FINGER TAPE

KAKUTO FINGER TAPE

$55.00
Quantity

Kakuto Finger Tape 

Premium non-elastic rayon finger tape for grip, support, and finger protection.

Kakuto Finger Tape is designed for athletes who rely on their hands and fingers every session. Made from breathable rayon with a strong, reliable and hypoallergenic adhesive, this tape provides consistent support without restricting movement.

Whether you’re training hard, competing, or protecting already worn skin, Kakuto Finger Tape helps you stay focused on performance — not your fingers.

What Is Kakuto Finger Tape?

Kakuto Finger Tape is a non-elastic rayon athletic tape designed to protect fingers, joints, and skin during high-intensity training. It offers dependable support for gripping, pulling, and repetitive hand use while remaining comfortable for extended wear.

Who Uses Kakuto Finger Tape?

Kakuto Finger Tape is trusted by athletes and practitioners across disciplines that demand grip strength, finger durability, and joint stability, including:

  • BJJ athletes managing finger strain from gripping, lapels, and controls

  • Judokas protecting fingers during repetitive gripping and throws

  • MMA fighters supporting fingers and joints during training and sparring

  • Wrestlers reinforcing finger joints for clinching and mat work

  • Climbers and grip-focused athletes protecting skin and joints under load

  • Strength and conditioning athletes needing finger support for pulling and grip-intensive lifts

This tape is designed for training longevity, helping athletes show up consistently without unnecessary strain or setbacks.

Why Athletes Choose Kakuto Finger Tape

  • Non-elastic rayon construction for consistent finger support

  • Strong adhesive that stays secure during intense sessions

  • Breathable material to reduce sweat build-up and discomfort

  • Easy to tear and apply without scissors

  • Comfortable for repeated use across training and competition

When to Use Finger Tape

Kakuto Finger Tape is ideal for:

  • High-grip training sessions

  • Competition days

  • Protecting healing skin or joints

  • Managing minor finger strain during training blocks

  • Long training weeks where finger fatigue builds up

Pack Sizes Available

Choose the pack size that fits your training volume:

  • Single Roll – Perfect for trying it out or topping up your kit

  • 3 Pack – Ideal for light or occasional training

  • 5 Pack – Suited for regular training cycles

  • 10 Pack – Best value for frequent training and long-term use

Available in black and white.

How to Use

  1. Tear the tape to your preferred length

  2. Wrap firmly around fingers or joints needing support

  3. Apply with light tension — the tape does the work, not stretch

  4. Remove after training and reapply as needed

Product Details

  • Material: Rayon

  • Elasticity: Non-elastic

  • Adhesive: Zinc oxide - strong, training-grade hold

  • Colours: Black or White

  • Sold as: Single roll or multi-pack

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this finger tape suitable for BJJ and Judo training?
Yes. Kakuto Finger Tape is commonly used by BJJ athletes and Judokas to support fingers during grip-heavy training.

Is the tape elastic?
No. This is a non-elastic tape designed for consistent support.

Will it stay on during intense training?
Yes. The adhesive is built to remain secure during high-intensity sessions.

Can it be used daily?
Absolutely. The breathable rayon material is comfortable for repeated use.

Why Kakuto?

Kakuto builds gear for athletes who train consistently and value longevity. No shortcuts, no gimmicks — just equipment designed to support disciplined training over time.