Being grabbed from behind is a common self-defense scenario. Not knowing who has grabbed you and what their intent is can cause one to panic and lose focus. Even if you are not a trained martial arts expert there are two simple and highly effective self-defense techniques to use as a means of escape. Using either can cause the assailant enough pain to release their grasp.

Self-Defense Release Tactic 1

The human foot contains 26 bones. Many of these bones are quite small and can be broken fairly easily when struck with substantial force. A number of ligaments, tendons and nerves are also in the foot. Even if a bone in the foot is not broken, striking these areas can cause enough pain to the attacker to release their hold. If you have ever had anyone accidently step on the top, or instep, of your foot or you accidently dropped anything heavy on it you know the type of pain there can be.

The top of the foot is the most vulnerable to attack using this self-defense tactic. The toes are also vulnerable to attack. Although more force must be applied, especially if the attacker is wearing heavy shoes or boots, the toes can be dislocated or broken. The ankle is not the preferred point to attack. It contains much heavier bone and muscle than the foot. Although if struck at an angle with enough force the ankle can be dislocated or broken.

If your lower arms are pinned, attacking the assailants foot might be the only recourse. Your self-defense counter attack must be performed quickly to avoid being picked up or thrown to the ground. Stomp the top of their foot with your heel. You cannot be sure what type of covering is on their foot so maximum pressure must be applied. Using full force, drive you heel through their foot all the way through to the ground.

Self-Defense Release Tactic 2

If your lower arms and hands are free attack the assailants fingers. The human fingers and thumbs are not especially strong individually. One effective self-defense technique involves using one or both of your hands to grab one finger. The small finger is the weakest, however any finger will do. After grabbing a single finger pull it back towards the top of their hand. With enough force the finger will be dislocated or broken. The pain inflicted should be enough for them to release their grasp.

As with any life threatening situation, after a self-defense or martial arts technique has been successful, leaving the scene is preferred. There is no good reason to stay if the attacker has released you. They will be in substantial pain and probably no longer a threat if the technique was properly applied. Leave quickly to avoid others that may be in a position to attack. Locate and notify law enforcement as soon as possible.