Kansetsuwaza

Kansetsuwaza (関節技) is a category of grappling techniques in Japanese martial arts that aim to control or submit an opponent by manipulating joints. Techniques in this category apply leverage, traction, or hyperextension to joints such as the elbow, wrist, shoulder, knee, or ankle, often forcing the opponent to submit through pain or loss of function.

In Kodokan Judo, kansetsuwaza is one of the three main subcategories of katame-waza, alongside osaekomi-waza (holding techniques) and shime-waza (chokes). Practitioners learn a variety of joint locks, including arm locks and leg locks, which can be applied from a range of grappling positions.

Safety and rules: Joint locks can cause injury if applied improperly; training emphasizes controlled application, safety tapping, and understanding when to release. In competition, allowed joints and exertion are regulated by sport-specific rules to reduce risk.

Kansetsuwaza are widely used across judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, sambo, and other grappling arts; knowledge of these techniques is essential to ground-based grappling and self-defense. The term literally translates as "joint techniques" and reflects their intent to manipulate joints.