The stand-up, or "neutral" portion of a wrestling match, includes time where both athletes "tie up." When tied up, athletes aggressively bump and push their heads against one another to achieve a positional advantage. This can be hard on the face and ears -- which is why headgear is regulation equipment in most modern, organized wrestling.
Structure
Wrestling headgear consists of two padded panels molded to approximate the contours of the sides of the head. The panels are joined together by three sets of straps. One set of straps goes across the crown or forehead. The second wraps around the back of the head. The third goes under the chin and snaps in place. All three sets can be adjusted to fit the headgear to an individual athlete's head.
Wrestling Injuries
Repeated blows and rubbing against an ear can break up the cartilage in the ear, resulting in a condition called auricular hematoma, or "cauliflower ear." Although not dangerous, it can be painful and unsightly. The repeated head-slamming in wrestling competition can also result in a blow to the temple that causes a mild to moderate concussion.
Protection
The two rigid panels of headgear go over the ears and sides of the head. The ear coverage protects athletes' ears from the repeated impacts that cause an auricular hematoma. The same padding covers the side of the head, providing some limited protection against concussion from blows to the temple.
Styles
Although many different brands and models of headgear are on the market, they fall into two basic categories. One style uses cylindrical cups, with a rigid plastic understructure for the ear panels. These generally have two straps on the front and back strap sets, and adjust by working the straps through slots in the panels. The other style uses triangular panels of semi-rigid plastic, with one strap in all three strap positions. This second style adjusts with a sliding mechanism similar to those found in baseball caps. Both styles are permitted in organized competition, and neither has been demonstrated as significantly more or less effective.
References
- Sports MD: What is Cauliflower Ear?
- Andy Brick; Wrestling Coach; Hillsboro, Ore
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