Intelligent preparation and good, mindful sparring partners can minimize the risk of getting hurt, but occasional injuries are inherent to combative sports. Trying "gut it out" and train through injuries only prolongs the time it takes to heal and puts you at risk for even more serious injury. There's also the likelihood that you will unconsciously develop bad technical habits as you alter your mechanics to avoid painful movements or positions.

Your first order of business is to have a good team of health care professionals on your side to help you properly assess the nature of your injury, how to rehabilitate it, and how to return to fight-preparedness as quickly as possible.