The risk of getting cauliflower ear is an all-too-common concern for combat sport athletes. This injury is a frequent occurrence in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), boxing, and MMA when there is repeated blunt force trauma to the side of the head.
The continuous physical impact leads to swelling, and eventually, the cartilage surrounding the ear hardens.
Understanding basic cauliflower ear prevention and treatment protocols is essential for athletes to avoid permanent deformity. Though cauliflower ear is common, it’s also avoidable.
This guide answers the question: What is cauliflower ear? We’ll also discuss how the injury forms, as well as BJJ and MMA ear protection strategies to reduce the likelihood of developing it.
Why Is It Called Cauliflower Ear?
So, what is cauliflower ear exactly, and where does the name come from?
The medical term for cauliflower ear is auricular hematoma. It occurs when blood builds up between the skin and cartilage as a result of broken blood vessels due to repeated friction or impact.
When left untreated, the cartilage hardens and forms a thick, bumpy pattern similar to a head of cauliflower.
Why Is Cauliflower Ear Common in BJJ & MMA?
Both combat sports require close physical contact. In BJJ, athletes grapple head to head, which increases the risk of injury to the ear.
Common techniques such as headlocks, clinches, and scrambles put direct pressure on the ear and can cause swelling and small blood vessels to burst.
In MMA, fighters engage in strikes and kicks, both of which often land on the side of the head. Again, the constant friction and repeated blunt force trauma can cause cauliflower ear to form.
The more consistent and intense the workout sessions are, the more cumulative damage that occurs. Therefore, rest days are essential to allow swelling to go down because even small injuries can turn into permanent deformities without the right care.
How to Prevent Cauliflower Ear
Though the nature of the sport makes it nearly unavoidable, there are several ways to protect the ears and reduce the risk.
Wear Protective Headgear
Cauliflower ear prevention starts with wearing high-quality BJJ or MMA headgear.
Hayabusa headgear offers the ultimate in ear and curved cheek protection while maintaining a wide field of vision to benefit performance. The full coverage padding feels secure and slip-free but lightweight enough to feel comfortable.
Develop Proper Grappling Technique
In BJJ, grappling is a technique that involves submission holds, clinches, and takedowns.
Despite the constant contact, the trick is to reduce excessive friction and grinding against the mat or opponent as much as possible. This requires learning correct head positioning to avoid unnecessary trauma to the ear.
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Hayabusa T3 MMA Headgear
Hayabusa T3 Boxing Headgear
Keep Your Ears Clean & Dry
Since moisture increases inflammation, sweaty sessions make it easier for fluid buildup to occur and cause problems down the road.
Make it part of your post-training routine to clean and dry your ears. This helps to prevent infection that can worsen swelling.
Cauliflower Ear Treatment
Leaving the ears exposed to repetitive punches can cause cauliflower ear. When this happens, seek treatment immediately to prevent further deformity.
If your ear swells up, get it checked by a medical professional who can drain the excess fluid buildup if necessary. Additionally, over-the-counter pain reliever medications like ibuprofen can reduce swelling and discomfort.
However, the main treatment factor is rest to allow the ear to heal without experiencing further trauma.
Best Gear for Protecting Your Ears in BJJ & MMA
Get the quality protection you need without the bulk of clunky headgear. Hayabusa’s headgear collection is crafted with multi-layered technology foam and a virtually indestructible Vylar® exterior.
The full coverage and comfortable fit are ideal for BJJ and MMA ear protection. Furthermore, the patented T-Cross® closure minimizes shifting which reduces excessive friction.
Protect Your Ears and Fight with Confidence
Prevent the risk of succumbing to cauliflower ear by taking the proper precautions.
Headgear that provides MMA and BJJ ear protection is your first line of defense against blunt force trauma that can lead to fluid buildup.
Also, take care in how you train and learn to position the ears away from your opponent and the mat as much as possible to avoid friction. If either ear becomes inflamed, seek medical treatment right away to avoid permanent damage.
Whether you're sparring with a partner or going head-to-head in heated competition, stay safe and protected with Hayabusa’s premium protective gear.
