History of Multiple Allergies and Gradual Onset Running-Related Injuries in Distance Runners: SAFER XXXV

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Allergy Research
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Gradual onset running-related injuries (GORRIs) are common among runners.
• The association between allergies and GORRIs is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between allergies (single, multiple, and by category) and allergy medication use with GORRIs.
• To determine if a cumulative risk exists for GORRIs based on the number of allergy categories.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional descriptive study of 76,654 participants in the Two Oceans Marathons (2012-2015).
• Data collected via compulsory online screening questionnaires on GORRIs and allergy history (animal, plant, medication, other).
• Prevalence ratios (PR) and confidence intervals were calculated to assess associations.

Main Results:

• A history of any allergy (PR=2.2), multiple allergy categories, and allergy medication use were significantly associated with GORRIs (P<0.0001).
• These associations held true for both muscle and tendon injuries.
• A cumulative risk effect was observed, with increased GORRI risk correlating with a higher number of allergy categories.

Conclusions:

• Allergies and allergy medication use are significant risk factors for gradual onset running-related injuries.
• A novel finding is the cumulative risk associated with multiple allergies.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms connecting allergies and GORRIs.