Guest post by Dr Kickass, Mike Piekarski, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Former MMA Fighter, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt. Follow him on instagram.

Jiu Jitsu Fingers: Consequences of Gripping

Establishing the proper grip is integral to initiating offense in grappling arts, specifically those where jackets are involved such as brazilian jiu jitsu, judo and sambo. Many matches are won based on who is able to achieve their intended grips to allow for the throw, choke, sweep or guard pass. Because grips are so important it is not surprising that many grapplers have a history of finger pains and aches.

Anatomy of the finger:

There are three joints of the finger:

1️⃣Metacarpophalangeal joint (MCP joint)
2️⃣Proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP joint)
3️⃣Distal interphalangeal joint (DIP joint)
4️⃣Carpometacarpal joint (CMC) Thumb only.

The joints involved with grip injuries are often the PIP and DIP joints. The volar plate and collateral ligaments help to stabilize the PIP and DIP joints. The volar plate is a ligament on the front of the knuckle to prevent hyperextension and the collateral ligaments are on the sides of the joint to prevent side bending. Most finger injuries begin with damage to these ligaments: sprains which mean the ligaments are stretched or have partial tears. If the ligament ruptures then dislocations can happen.

Post-traumatic osteoarthritis: With repetitive stress, multiple sprains and/or dislocations the joints will begin to develop arthritis. Signs often begin with stiffness, general aches and restrict movement. As the arthritis progresses there will be increased laxity/instability followed by limited mobility. In the later stages you may notice enlarged joints.

Stop Feeling Sore, Tired, And Injured And Start Being Preventative With Your Injuries. It’s Time To Become Bulletproof For BJJ!

• Get grappling-specific exercise routines to build mobility, strength, grip, and core, with or without a gym
• This system was designed by BJJ brown and black belts and professional fitness gurus Joe Worthington and James Tomlinson
• Get different exercises, sets, reps, and more to keep your workouts fresh and dynamic:

Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents

💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win? 💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers? It’s not your age. It’s your strategy. If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you. 🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:

Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu

Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.

Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.