Keeping wrestlers healthy by avoiding skin infections is a concern of every wrestler, wrestling parent and coach. While skin infections such as ringworm (Tinea fungus), impetigo (bacterial infection), herpes (virus) and pink eye (conjunctivitis) are not uncommon in contact sports, wrestlers need to take specific precautions to avoid infection.

Athletes competing in a wide variety of sports are at risk of contracting and spreading bacterial skin infections. Bacteria proliferate in environments of wet, macerated skin that is repeatedly abraded against competing athletes, equipment, clothing, or objects in the field of play. Common infections include ringworm (Tinea fungus), impetigo (bacterial infection), herpes (virus) and pink eye (conjunctivitis) impetigo, folliculitis, furunculosis, pitted keratolysis, Staph, MRSA and otitis externa. Diagnosis and treatment are often straightforward and vary little from care for non-athletes. However, knowledge of preventive strategies and return-to-play criteria, as outlined by the National Collegiate Athletic Association, are paramount for clinicians who care for competitive athletes.

Please visit our links and review our detailed Prevention Facts. If you need more information or want to find out how Defense Soap can help keep athletes free of skin diseases please contact us.

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