Kapoera--popular dance or martial art?
Kluger, Y.; Ravid, A.; Ben Avraham, R.; Soffer, D.; Aladgem, D.
Harefuah 132(2): 137-138; 151
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 0017-7768 PMID: 9119300 Document Number: 476797
Kapoera, a combination of acrobatics and coordinated athletic movement, is believed to have been introduced to South America during the 19th century by transported African slaves. The dance does not involve intentional physical contact, but during 6 months, 3 patients were admitted here for injuries induced by the forceful movements of this dance. 2 underwent exploratory laparotomy that revealed bowel perforations and 1 suffered a comminuted nasal bone fracture. Medical personnel should be familiar with the potential hazards of this dance and martial art.