Recovery sector of the Ironman triathlon race: Pain profile of triathletes and sector organization

Abstract

Summary Introduction Triathletes exhibit a number of clinical conditions during races. Knowledge of pain prevalence and most affected body regions after finishing Ironman races could guide preventive programs. The objective of the study was to describe the pain profile of triathletes after finishing long-distance Ironman triathlon races based on the prevalence of pain complaints of the triathletes who sought treatment at the recovery sector. Summary of facts and results 5,292 triathletes were treated during nine race editions. Previous to treatment, triathletes answered: “What parts of your body do you feel the worst pain?” and “Did you have any cramps during the race? If yes, where?”. The prevalence of triathletes who sought for recovery assistance was 33% and odds of a triathlete who starts the race seeks the recovery sector is 49:100. In all, 1.4% of the triathlete sought the recovery sector in pain absence, the odds is 1:100. The highest prevalence and odds of pain complaints were for anterior thigh, posterior leg, and posterior thigh regions. The highest prevalence and odds for cramps were in posterior thigh region. Conclusion Approximately one-third of the triathletes starting a long-distance Ironman race sought treatment at the recovery sector with high prevalence of pain in the thighs and posterior region of legs.