Remember that little red patch that appeared after a particularly intense grappling session? You probably thought nothing of it, maybe just a bit of mat burn. But then it started to itch, spread, and suddenly you realised it was something more. Skin infections are a common, albeit unpleasant, reality in Jiu-Jitsu. But don’t despair! They’re generally nothing to worry about, and with the right knowledge and preventative measures, you can significantly reduce your risk and stay on the mats.
Understanding Skin Infections in Jiu Jitsu
Jiu-Jitsu, with its close contact and shared training surfaces, creates an environment where skin infections can easily spread. Bacteria, fungi, and viruses thrive in warm, moist conditions, making the mats a potential breeding ground if not cleaned regularly. While the thought might be unsettling, understanding the common types of infections and how they spread is the first step in protecting yourself.
Common Types of Skin Infections in BJJ
Here’s a rundown of some of the most frequently encountered skin infections in the BJJ world:
• Ringworm (Tinea Corporis): Despite its name, ringworm isn’t caused by a worm but by a fungus. It presents as a circular, raised, scaly rash that often itches. It spreads through direct skin contact or contact with contaminated surfaces.
• Staphylococcus Aureus (Staph): Staph is a bacterium that can cause a variety of infections, ranging from minor skin irritations to more serious conditions.
• Impetigo: A highly contagious bacterial skin infection, impetigo typically presents as red sores that quickly rupture, ooze, and form a yellowish crust.
• Folliculitis: An inflammation of hair follicles, often caused by bacterial or fungal infection. It appears as small, red bumps or pimples around hair follicles.
• Cellulitis: A deeper infection of the skin and underlying tissues, cellulitis can cause redness, swelling, pain, and warmth to the touch. In severe cases, it can lead to serious complications and requires prompt medical attention.
• Herpes Gladiatorum: Also known as “mat herpes,” this viral infection is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). It manifests as small, painful blisters that can appear anywhere on the body.
• Molluscum Contagiosum: This viral skin infection causes small, raised, pearl-like bumps on the skin. It spreads through direct skin contact or contact with contaminated objects.
How Skin Infections Spread in a Grappling Environment
Several factors contribute to the spread of skin infections in Jiu-Jitsu:
• Direct Skin Contact: The close physical contact inherent in grappling provides ample opportunity for pathogens to transfer from one person to another.
• Contaminated Surfaces: Mats, training equipment, and even shared towels can harbour infectious agents.
• Skin Trauma: Cuts, abrasions, and even minor mat burn can create entry points for bacteria and viruses.
• Poor Hygiene: Inadequate hygiene practices, such as not showering after training or sharing personal items, can increase the risk of infection.
• Compromised Immune System: A weakened immune system can make you more susceptible to infections.
Preventing Skin Infections in BJJ
Prevention is always better than cure. Fortunately, there are a some simple yet effective strategies, that can significantly reduce your risk of contracting a skin infection and keep yourself and your training partners healthy.
Personal Hygiene Practices
• Shower Immediately After Training: This is perhaps the most crucial step in preventing skin infections. Use antibacterial soap and pay particular attention to areas prone to sweating, such as the armpits, groin, and feet.
• Wash Your Training Gear After Every Session: Gi’s, rash guards, shorts and spats should be washed thoroughly with hot water and detergent after each use. Consider using a disinfectant laundry additive for extra protection.
• Keep Your Nails Short and Clean: Long nails can trap dirt and bacteria, increasing the risk of spreading infection.
• Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Never share towels, razors, or other personal items with training partners.
• Cover Any Cuts or Abrasions: Use a waterproof bandage to protect any open wounds from exposure to bacteria and viruses on the mats.
• Wear Clean Training Attire: Always wear freshly laundered training clothes. Avoid wearing the same gear for multiple sessions without washing it.
Gym Hygiene and Mat Maintenance
A clean training environment is essential for minimising the risk of skin infections. Here’s what to look for in a gym and what you can do to contribute to a clean and safe training space:
• Regular Mat Cleaning: The mats should be cleaned and disinfected regularly, ideally multiple times a day.
• Use of Antimicrobial Cleaning Solutions: Gyms should use cleaning solutions that are effective against a broad range of bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
• Good Ventilation: Good ventilation helps to reduce moisture and humidity, making it less conducive to the growth of pathogens.
• Encourage Reporting of Infections: Gyms should have a policy in place that encourages members to report any suspected skin infections so that appropriate measures can be taken to prevent further spread.
• Personal Responsibility: As a member, you also have a responsibility to help maintain a clean training environment. Wipe down equipment after use, avoid walking barefoot off the mats, and report any concerns you may have to the gym staff.
Lifestyle Factors and Immune System Support
A strong immune system is your body’s natural defence against infection. Here are some lifestyle factors that can help boost your immunity:
• Balanced Diet: Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein to provide your body with the nutrients it needs to function optimally.
• Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to allow your body to repair and regenerate.
• Stress Management: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated and help flush out toxins.
• Consider Supplements: Some supplements, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc, may help support immune function. However, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.
What to Do If You Get a Skin Infection
Despite your best efforts, you may still develop a skin infection. If you suspect you have an infection, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the infection from spreading and minimise complications.
Identifying a Skin Infection
Familiarise yourself with the signs and symptoms of common skin infections. Look out for:
• Rashes: Red, itchy, or scaly patches of skin.
• Blisters: Small, fluid-filled bumps.
• Sores: Open wounds or ulcers.
• Pimples or Bumps: Small, raised bumps or pus-filled pimples.
• Swelling: Inflammation and swelling of the affected area.
• Pain: Tenderness or pain to the touch.
• Itching: Persistent itching that doesn’t go away with regular hygiene.
Seeking Medical Attention
If you suspect you have a skin infection, see a doctor or dermatologist as soon as possible. They can accurately diagnose the infection and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Treatment Options
Treatment options for skin infections vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. Common treatments include:
• Topical Antifungal Creams: Used to treat fungal infections like ringworm.
• Oral Antifungal Medications: May be prescribed for more severe fungal infections.
• Topical Antibiotic Ointments: Used to treat bacterial infections like impetigo and folliculitis.
• Oral Antibiotics: May be prescribed for more serious bacterial infections like cellulitis.
• Antiviral Medications: Used to treat viral infections like herpes gladiatorum.
• Incision and Drainage: May be necessary to drain abscesses or boils.
Returning to Training
It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding when it’s safe to return to training. Returning too soon can not only delay your recovery but also risk spreading the infection to your training partners. Generally, you should wait until:
• You have completed the full course of treatment.
• All lesions have healed completely.
• You have been cleared by your doctor to return to training.
Creating a Culture of Hygiene and Prevention at 10th Planet Banbury
At 10th Planet Banbury, we are committed to creating a safe and healthy training environment for all our members. We believe that education and proactive measures are key to preventing the spread of skin infections.
Our Commitment to Cleanliness
• We clean and disinfect the mats daily using antimicrobial cleaning solutions.
• We encourage members to report any suspected skin infections to the coaching staff.
• We regularly review and update our hygiene protocols to ensure they are in line with the latest best practices.
What We Expect From Our Members
• Shower immediately after training with antibacterial soap.
• Wash your training gear after every session.
• Keep your nails short and clean.
• Cover any cuts or abrasions with a waterproof bandage.
• Avoid sharing personal items.
• Report any suspected skin infections to the coaching staff.
• Be mindful of your hygiene and take responsibility for preventing the spread of infection.
By working together, we create a training environment where everyone feels safe and confident to train and pursue their goals.
Final Thoughts
Skin infections are an unfortunate reality in any sport, not just Jiu-Jitsu, but they are manageable. By understanding the risks, implementing effective prevention strategies, and seeking prompt treatment when necessary, you can minimise your risk and stay healthy on the mats. Remember, your health and the health of your training partners are paramount. It’s key to work together and create a culture of hygiene and prevention so we can all continue to enjoy the sport we love.
FAQs
Can I train if I have a small cut or abrasion?
It’s best to cover any cuts or abrasions with a waterproof bandage before training to prevent infection.
How often should I wash my gear?
You should wash your gear after every training session to prevent the build-up of bacteria and fungi.
What type of soap is best for preventing skin infections?
Antibacterial soap is recommended for showering after training as it helps to kill bacteria on the skin. Members of 10th Planet Banbury get exclusive discounts on Grapplers Soap.
Is it okay to train if I have a minor rash?
It’s best to see a doctor or dermatologist to get the rash diagnosed before returning to training. It could be a sign of a skin infection.
What should I do if I suspect a training partner has a skin infection?
Kindly and discreetly inform your training partner and encourage them to seek medical attention. It’s important to prioritise the health and safety of everyone on the mats.
