Punching someone in the armpit may seem like an unusual way to fight, but it is not uncommon in martial arts and self-defense classes. The armpit is a vulnerable area of the body and can cause significant pain and discomfort when struck. In this blog post, we will explore what happens when you punch someone in the armpit and why it can be an effective technique.
The anatomy of the armpit.
The armpit, or axilla, is the area beneath the shoulder joint, where the arm connects to the body. The armpit contains a number of important structures, including lymph nodes, blood vessels, nerves, and muscles. The axillary artery and vein, which supply blood to and from the arm, run through the armpit, as do a number of nerves, including the brachial plexus.
When you punch someone in the armpit, you are targeting a number of these structures. Depending on the force and location of the punch, the impact can cause damage to the nerves, blood vessels, and muscles in the area. This can result in pain, numbness, weakness, and even paralysis.
One of the main reasons why punching someone in the armpit can be effective is because it can disrupt the function of the brachial plexus. The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that runs from the spinal cord to the arm, controlling movement and sensation. When the brachial plexus is damaged, it can result in weakness or paralysis of the arm, as well as numbness or tingling in the fingers.
In addition to affecting the nerves, punching someone in the armpit can also cause damage to the blood vessels in the area. The axillary artery and vein, which supply blood to and from the arm, run through the armpit and can be damaged by a powerful blow. This can result in bleeding, swelling, and pain in the area, as well as reduced blood flow to the arm.
Punching someone in the armpit can also cause damage to the muscles in the area. The muscles of the armpit, including the pectoralis major and minor, the latissimus dorsi, and the teres major, are important for arm movement and stability. When these muscles are damaged, it can result in pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the arm.
So, what are the potential consequences of punching someone in the armpit? Depending on the force and location of the punch, it can cause a range of symptoms and injuries, including:
- Pain: Punching someone in the armpit can cause significant pain, which can be immediate or develop over time. The pain can be sharp, dull, or throbbing, and may radiate down the arm or into the chest.
- Numbness or tingling: Damage to the brachial plexus can cause numbness or tingling in the arm and hand. This can be temporary or permanent, depending on the extent of the injury.
- Weakness or paralysis: In severe cases, damage to the brachial plexus can result in weakness or paralysis of the arm. This can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks and can have a significant impact on quality of life.
- Reduced range of motion: Damage to the muscles in the armpit can result in limited range of motion in the arm, making it difficult to lift or move the arm in certain directions.
- Swelling and bruising: Punching someone in the armpit can cause swelling and bruising in the area, which can be unsightly and uncomfortable.
It is worth noting that punching someone in the armpit can be dangerous and should only be done in self-defense situations where there is a real threat to your safety. Using excessive force or striking someone in the armpit outside of self-defense can lead to legal consequences and is not an acceptable form of behavior.
In conclusion, punching someone in the armpit can cause significant pain and discomfort, as well as a range of injuries, including damage to the nerves, blood vessels, and muscles in the area. It can be an effective technique in self-defense situations, but should only be used when absolutely necessary and with caution. As with any form of physical confrontation, it is important to prioritize safety and avoid using excessive force. If you find yourself in a situation where self-defense is necessary, seek out professional training and guidance to ensure that you can protect yourself effectively and responsibly.
