Oral injury in Kendo players: a cross-sectional survey

Abstract

This study evaluated the risk of oral injury in Kendo. We hypothesized that Kendo players in Japan may experience oral injury due to the use of face protector for kendo (men) with inaccurate measurements or wearing it incorrectly. The survey included 400 kendo players (male, 276; female, 174) and covered four areas: the relationship between the characteristics, percentage of oral injury, temporomandibular disorder (TMD), and use of men. Based on the who experience of oral injury, participants were classified into ‘trauma’ and ‘non-trauma’ groups. Those who suffered oral injury were 179 (44.8 %; males, n=118; females, n=61). In the past month, 32 (8.2%) Kendo players reported that their matches/training were affected by dental/oral problems. For TMD, 50 participants had a total score >8.5 from four screening questions. For 289 (72.3%) participants, the men they are currently wearing fit well. Of those that reported that their men do not fit properly, 48 (12.0%) felt that their men were too large, and 14 (3.5%) felt that their men were too small. Years of experience and clenching of one’s jaws during an offensive Kendo movement significantly contributed to oral injury. Clenching one’s jaws during a defensive Kendo move, current men fit, sleep bruxism, and morning symptoms from sleep bruxism significantly contributed to TMD. Men with an accurate sizing allows proper field of vision, eliminating head shifting inside men during strikes and movements. This suggests that vision can be secured by adjusting the ties on men, chin movement, and the way one looks through the men. Since Kendo equipment is originally a Japanese craft, it has high artistry. Thus, properly worn Kendo equipment brings higher functionality and esthetic appeal.