ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to use ultrasonography to measure femoral articular cartilage thickness changes during marathon running, which could support MRI studies showing that deformation of knee cartilage during long-distance running is no greater than that for other weight-bearing activities. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Participants included 38 marathon runners with no knee pain or history of knee injury, aged 18-39. Ultrasound images of the femoral articular cartilage were taken two hours before and immediately after the race. Femoral articular cartilage thickness was measured at both the medial and lateral femoral condyles. RESULTS: The maximum change in femoral articular cartilage thickness, measured at the left outer lateral femoral condyle, was 6.94% (P=.006). All other femoral articular cartilage thickness changes were not significant. CONCLUSION: A change in femoral articular cartilage thickness of 6.94% supports our hypothesis that long-distance running does not induce deformational changes greater than that of regular daily activities. This study using ultrasonography supports MRI evidence that knee cartilage tolerates marathon running well.
ABSTRACT
CONTEXT: Antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment for bacterial infections in patients of all ages. Athletes who maximally train are at risk for illness and various infections. Routinely used antibiotics have been linked to tendon injuries, cardiac arrhythmias, diarrhea, photosensitivity, cartilage issues, and decreased performance. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: Relevant articles published from 1989 to 2012 obtained through searching MEDLINE and OVID. Also, the Food and Drug Administration website was utilized. STUDY DESIGN: Clinical review. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 3. RESULTS: The team physician should consider alternative medications in place of the "drug of choice" when adverse drug effects are a concern for an athlete's health or performance. If alternative medications cannot be selected, secondary preventative measures, including sunscreen or probiotics, may be needed. CONCLUSION: Physicians choose medications based on a variety of factors to help ensure infection resolution while limiting potential side effects. Extra precautions are indicated when treating athletes with certain antibiotics.
