There is more risk of suffering concussions or being misdiagnosed with head trauma is greater among fighters who rapidly cut weight before bouts, usually by dehydrating, researchers have revealed for the first time.
More than 60% of athletes in combat sports such as boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA) reported that their symptoms worsened after they dehydrated to make strict weight classes.
These controversial weight cutting techniques involve stop drinking water and endure long periods in saunas.
MMA athletes reported concussion severity to be 40% higher compared to other sports, particularly boxing – believed to be due to the mix of striking and contact with the ground.
Published in the Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine, the study comes after a series of tragedies associated with weight cuts, with some athletes even dying in the attempt to achieve a perceived competitive edge, by competing in a smaller weight class.
They found that as competitors dramatically dehydrate themselves to meet stringent weight classes, the associated symptoms may ‘muddy the waters’ of baseline concussion testing, due to similar symptoms.
This is because the symptoms of hypohydration – where competitors enter a water deficit – match concussive signs, such as dizziness, headaches, and lethargy.
This study has spurred further probes into the neurological implications of rapid weight loss. The researchers have called on governing bodies to check fighters’ hydration levels before fights.
Researcher Nasir Uddin, from St Mary’s University, said: “This study shows that current concussion testing does not account for the crossover of symptoms from being dehydrated, and is potentially putting fighters at risk.
“Not only is cutting weight through dehydration in and of itself dangerous, but it might actually exacerbate concussion symptoms and, even more concerningly, means medical professionals may actually misdiagnose it.
“Going forward, governing bodies should ensure hydration and baseline concussion symptoms are taken into account before and after bouts.”
The study surveyed more than 130 anonymous athletes representing six combat sports, all aged 18 or above and who had previously cut weight.
It also found that 65% of the fighters had an experience of a weight cut “not going to plan”, suffering a lack of energy, strength, power, coordination or increased susceptibility to being ‘rocked’ during a bout.
This means the dangerous practice may not offer a competitive advantage after all.
Dr Jamie Tallent, from the University of Essex, said: “This is perhaps the most surprising finding that not only are weight cuts dangerous – they leave fighters at a disadvantage more often than not and may exacerbate the risks of being further injured.”
Source: University of Essex
