Groin attack

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A groin attack is an attempt to cause pain to the groin area of one's opponent. The technique can be quickly debilitating, due to the large number of sensitive nerve endings in the testicles in males, as well as the vulva in females. Despite popular portrayals in comedy, a groin attack is found painful by both sexes, and in some cases can be incapacitating. A sufficiently powerful blow can fracture the pubic bone, resulting in immediate loss of walking ability and damage to the abdominal organs (which are supported by the pelvis).[1] Groin attacks have been popularised as a comedic device on programs such as Americas Funniest Home Videos as well as on Youtube.

Contents

[edit] The "low blow"

Groin attack is considered to be a "low blow" not only in the literal sense, but also metaphorically. In a playful attack, or attack in the framework of a sport, a low blow is seen as unfair or improper. It is often considered dishonorable. Strikes to the groin are almost universally forbidden in martial arts competitions, including boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts competitions where full-contact strikes are normal and permitted. Testicle attacks were, however, allowed until the 1980's in Thai boxing (Muay Thai). Many martial arts organizations require competitors to wear protective cups, as do many other sports. Direct strikes to the groin are generally considered illegal in professional wrestling, as well; however, in certain "hardcore" matches where the rules are relaxed, such attacks are allowed.

The groin attack, if used properly, generally results in temporary incapacitation of the victim due to the sensitivity of the testicles. In a vast majority of cases, while painful, no lasting harm is done. However, in some extreme cases, from a very hard blow or squeeze, the testicle can rupture. In such cases hospitalization is necessary and if the testicle cannot be repaired, it must be removed. In extremely rare cases a hard blow or squeeze can result in neurogenic shock and rarely death. This is due to the sudden extreme pain, but is very rare and has only happened in a few confirmed cases.

[edit] See also

[edit] References

  1. ^ Anterior Pelvic Injuries - Wheeless' Textbook of Orthopaedics

[edit] Further reading

  • John Hibbard (February 1993). Karate Breaking Techniques: With Practical Applications to Self-Defense. Tuttle Publishing, 70/72/147/194. ISBN 0-8048-1876-2. 
  • Fred Hutchinson (May 2001). Low Kicks: Aiming Low For Maximum Punishment In Unarmed Combat. Paladin Press, 3–4. ISBN 1-58160-138-7. 
  • Philip W. Cook (1997-09-30). Abused Men: The Hidden Side of Domestic Violence. Praeger Trade, 40. ISBN 0-275-95862-0. 
  • N. Mashiro (September 1979). Weapons At Hand (Black Medicine). Paladin Press, 31. ISBN 0-87364-168-X.