Most people would answer training and practice are the keys to being a fast runner. However, research published by Stephen Piazza and Sabrina Lee of Penn State University has shown the musculoskeletal anatomy plays a role in allowing sprinters to rapidly accelerate. Their study showed longer toes and shorter heels in sprinters compared to those of non-sprinters.
Why are these traits beneficial to sprinters? Longer toes have more time in contact with the ground and allow for an increase in acceleration. The increased ground contact allows better push off at the start of a race. After measuring the ankle joints and Achilles tendons, sprinters were also found to have heels 25% shorter than non-sprinters. This allows the sprinter to produce a greater force with a shorter lever arm.
The characteristics of a sprinter defined in this study can provide better grip and power at the start of a race and could mean the difference between winning and losing. A question that remains unanswered is whether sprinters are born with these traits or do they develop from years of training?
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Friday, November 6, 2009
All About Gout
Do you find your great toe is red and very painful, especially after eating a rich meal? If it does, then you may be suffering from gout. Gout is caused by an increase in uric acid levels. This develops because of increased production of uric acid by the liver or decreased excretion by the kidneys. Eating a diet of rich foods such as red meats, some types of seafood and heavy cream sauces as well as consuming alcoholic beverages can also contribute to a gouty flare.
Gout is characterized by a sudden onset, knife-like pain, swelling and warmth to the affected joint. These symptoms occur as the uric acid crystallizes in a joint space. This is commonly seen in the big toe joint of the foot. Men between the ages of 40-50 are frequently affected.
You should seek medical attention at the first sign of symptoms. It is important to rule out other causes of the pain, such as infection, so proper treatment can be offered. Gout is diagnosed through blood work to measure uric acid levels. A sample of joint fluid may be drawn to check for the presence of uric acid crystals. If left untreated, large deposits known as gouty tophi can develop and cause damage to the joint. X-rays are performed to check for changes to the joint and bone surfaces.
Gout is treated by anti-inflammatory medications prescribed by your doctor for an acute flare. Other medications are available for long term management of gout. An injection to the affected joint is another treatment option. Discussion of your symptoms with your doctor will determine the treatment best for you.
Holiday parties will be here soon with platters of rich foods that could lead to a gout attack. By eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, exercising regularly and following the advice of your doctor this holiday season can be happy and pain-free.
Gout is characterized by a sudden onset, knife-like pain, swelling and warmth to the affected joint. These symptoms occur as the uric acid crystallizes in a joint space. This is commonly seen in the big toe joint of the foot. Men between the ages of 40-50 are frequently affected.
You should seek medical attention at the first sign of symptoms. It is important to rule out other causes of the pain, such as infection, so proper treatment can be offered. Gout is diagnosed through blood work to measure uric acid levels. A sample of joint fluid may be drawn to check for the presence of uric acid crystals. If left untreated, large deposits known as gouty tophi can develop and cause damage to the joint. X-rays are performed to check for changes to the joint and bone surfaces.
Gout is treated by anti-inflammatory medications prescribed by your doctor for an acute flare. Other medications are available for long term management of gout. An injection to the affected joint is another treatment option. Discussion of your symptoms with your doctor will determine the treatment best for you.
Holiday parties will be here soon with platters of rich foods that could lead to a gout attack. By eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, exercising regularly and following the advice of your doctor this holiday season can be happy and pain-free.
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