Boxing Medicine Beyond the Ringside

Curr Sports Med Rep. 2026 Nov 1;25(11):357-362. doi: 10.1249/JSR.0000000000001380. Epub 2026 Nov 9.

ABSTRACT

Boxing is widely regarded as one of the oldest and most physically demanding sports, dating back to 3000 BC, and it first appeared at the modern Olympics in 1904. Boxers require a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare, and this review focuses on care beyond the ringside. Chronic injuries, particularly involving the upper extremity, require individualized management plans to get the athlete back into the ring on fight night. Team physician-guided return to play for boxers with concussions is another evolving pillar of boxing medicine. Weight management and nutrition are critical yet often underappreciated aspects of performance and safety, with attention to safe weight-cutting practices and hydration. Finally, the psychological toll of training, competition, and postcareer transition underscores the need for integrated mental health support. This review aims to synthesize current evidence and best practices in boxing medicine and to advocate for a comprehensive, athlete-centered approach that extends well beyond the ring.

PMID:43007324 | DOI:10.1249/JSR.0000000000001380