Impact of Marathon Running on Foot Muscles: Insights on Damage and Recovery Strategies

With the increasing popularity of marathon running as a fitness activity, understanding its effects on the body is crucial for preventing injuries and optimizing recovery. A recent// study conducted by researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology, Waseda University, Keio University, and Toin University of Yokohama explores the damaging effects of full marathon running on foot muscles and its association with changes in the longitudinal foot arch. The findings shed light on the susceptibility of different foot muscles to damage and provide valuable insights for planning effective recovery strategies (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Damage and recovery of the intrinsic and extrinsic foot muscles from running a full marathon

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Understanding Foot Muscles and Marathon Running

Foot muscles can be broadly classified as intrinsic and extrinsic muscles. Intrinsic muscles are contained entirely within the foot, while extrinsic muscles connect the lower leg to the foot. Both muscle groups play a crucial role in stabilizing the medial longitudinal arch of the foot. Previous studies have linked muscle swelling caused by long-distance running to a decrease in the longitudinal arch, but understanding the specific damage to intrinsic and extrinsic foot muscles has been a challenge. The research team recruited 22 college runners who were preparing for the Mt. Fuji International Marathon. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to assess the transverse relaxation time (T2) of the intrinsic and extrinsic foot muscles before the marathon and at intervals of 1, 3, and 8 days after the race. The T2 values indicate muscle damage and a three-dimensional analysis of foot posture was also conducted to measure longitudinal foot arch height.

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Impact of Running on Specific Foot Muscles and Arch Height

The findings revealed that certain foot muscles exhibited significant increases in T2 values after the marathon, indicating damage. Specifically, the quadratus plantae, flexor digitorum longus, tibialis posterior, and flexor hallucis longus showed notable increases in T2, with the effect persisting for three days in tibialis posterior. In contrast, no major changes were observed in the abductor hallucis and flexor digitorum brevis muscles.

The study also examined toe flexor muscle strength but did not find any significant changes in the participants. However, the analysis of the arch height ratio demonstrated a statistical decrease after the marathon, which correlated with T2 changes in the flexor digitorum longus and flexor hallucis longus.

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Implications and Recovery Strategies for Long-Distance Runners

The results indicate that the damage and recovery response after a full marathon differs among various foot muscles. Extrinsic muscles were found to be more susceptible to marathon-induced damage compared to intrinsic muscles. This finding aligns with previous studies that highlight the extensive pressure borne by the ankle joint during long-distance running. The quadratus plantae, an intrinsic foot muscle, was the only one to show damage, possibly due to its connection with extrinsic foot muscles.

The correlation between the flexor digitorum longus, flexor hallucis longus, and longitudinal foot arch height suggests that marathon-induced damage to these extrinsic muscles may contribute to a decrease in arch height.

The insights from this study are valuable for runners and sports professionals in planning better recovery strategies to prevent running-related injuries and improve conditioning. By understanding the susceptibility of different foot muscles to damage, individuals can tailor their recovery programs to address specific areas of concern.

Marathon running can have detrimental effects on foot muscles, leading to potential chronic pain or injuries. This study emphasizes the importance of understanding the impact of marathon running on intrinsic and extrinsic foot muscles. By considering the susceptibility of various foot muscles to damage and incorporating targeted recovery strategies, runners can minimize the risk of injuries and enhance their overall performance.

Reference:

1. Damage and recovery of the intrinsic and extrinsic foot muscles from running a full marathon - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37102625/)

Source-Medindia