Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2025

Comparative Analysis of Lower Limb Kinematics between the Initial and Terminal Phase of 5km Treadmill Running
Published on: July 17, 2020
The knowledge and attitudes of South African-based runners regarding the use of analgesics during training and
R Thorpe1, M Blockman2, H Talberg1
1Division of Physiotherapy, Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
Background:
The use of analgesics is prevalent in runners, with the associated potential for serious harm. However, there is limited information regarding runners' knowledge and attitudes towards the use of analgesics in relation to running.
Objectives:
To describe South African-based runners' knowledge and attitudes regarding running-related analgesic use.
Methods:
This study has a descriptive, cross-sectional design. South African-based runners, over the age of 18 who ran at least one race in the year preceding the study were included in this study. Participants completed an online questionnaire, including sections on demographic information, training and competition history, pain medication use, and knowledge and attitudes regarding running-related analgesic use.
Results:
Data from 332 participants were analysed. Attitudes regarding the use of analgesics in relation to running were generally positive; however, knowledge was poor, with only 20% of participants achieving adequate knowledge scores (75% or above). Very few (n=49; 15%) had both adequate knowledge and positive attitudes, with most respondents (n=188; 58%) having inadequate knowledge and negative attitudes. Negative attitudes towards the use of analgesics were found to increase the odds of running-related analgesic use (OR 2.32; 95% CI:1.31-4.11).
Conclusion:
Knowledge regarding running-related use of analgesics was inadequate. Despite a lack of knowledge, attitudes were positive. Participants displayed positive attitudes towards safe practice regarding running-related analgesic use, but these did not translate into good practice. Targeted interventions are required to educate runners and improve their knowledge of all the effects associated with running-related analgesic use.
Related Concept Videos
Analgesia and Pain Management
Local Anesthetics: Clinical Application as Epidural Anesthesia
Since epidural anesthetics can be infused through an epidural catheter, all types of drugs, including short-acting ones, can be administered. Chloroprocaine and lidocaine are examples of short and long-duration anesthetics, respectively. Bupivacaine...
Opioid Analgesics: Synthetic and Semisynthetic Opioids
Local Anesthetics: Pharmacokinetics
Local Anesthetics: Adverse Effects
Once absorbed into the systemic circulation, local anesthetics can affect the organs that depend on the functioning of sodium...
Local Anesthetics: Differential Sensitivity of Nerve Fibers

