Musculoskeletal Screening among 42 KM marathon runners in Sangli District: An Observational Study.

Background:Marathon running places the musculoskeletal. system under extended repetitive strain, potentially resulting in multiple musculoskeletal issues. Early identification of these problems through musculoskeletal screening is important for prevention and effective management in long-distance runners. Aim:To assess musculoskeletal problems in 42 km marathon runners from the Sangli district and to determine their association with marathon completion time, gender, and running experience. Materials and Methods:A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 125 marathon runners selected using random sampling technique. All participants underwent musculoskeletal screening to identify joint involvement and musculoskeletal problems. The collected data were statistically analysed to assess the relationship between musculoskeletal involvement and marathon completion time, gender, and running experience. Results:The study findings showed that the time taken to complete the marathon did not significantly affect the intensity of joint involvement. The most involved joint with musculoskeletal problem was Knee joint. Gender did not show a statistically significant difference in the involvement of musculoskeletal problems. Similarly, running experience did not demonstrate a significant association with musculoskeletal involvement. Conclusion:The present study concludes that musculoskeletal problems among marathon runners were not significantly influenced by marathon completion time, gender, or running experience. Routine musculoskeletal screening is recommended for early detection of potential problems and to aid in planning preventive and rehabilitative strategies for marathon runners.