Often times when we hear of a knockout or concussion, they are usually not used correctly. It is important to know that they are NOT one in the same. Especially as a fighter you should understand that they are not to be used interchangeably and are actually very different. First off, it is very important to remember that you should not be the one diagnosing your head injury. If you do get hurt by a punch you should see a doctor without question. Remember that just because you didn’t get knocked out unconscious, doesn’t mean you don’t have an injury. With that being said, let’s observe the difference between the two.
What Is a Knockout?
Obviously a knockout is mostly used when it comes to boxing and a boxing match, and it is when one of the fighters fall and doesn’t get up before the referees count is over. Just because you have been knocked out, doesn’t mean that you have endured a serious brain injury; however, a knockout is caused from the skull being moved around by the blow in which the fighter endured. It is the brains inertia that causes it to hit against the skulls inside, occurring near the skulls base. The areas of the brain impacted include the cerebellum and the brain stem in which when hit against the skull, they cause either loss of motor control or loss of consciousness.
What Is a Concussion?
Concussion is different than a knockout because it is not always associated with the loss of consciousness. It also involves a different part of the brain, specifically towards the top of the spinal cord. Basically, a concussion can do damage to the “wires” in which the brain is connected and it does so by reducing the efficiency in which signals travel. It is possible to endure a concussion without ever getting knocked out. After a concussion because of its seriousness, often times boxers will be asked to sit out from boxing for at least thirty days.
Being Aware
As a boxer and a fighter, it is crucial to know your injury and therefore know the difference between a knockout and concussion. In boxing you may or may not endure either of these injuries but in the meantime, you should also be sure to use equipment to protect yourself when you are both fighting or sparing. Just because you take hard blows to the head does not mean you are tough. It is dangerous and can put you at risk for an injury that can impact your life.
