Pattern of running-related self reported musculoskeletal injuries among Kenyan runners in the North Rift Region

Abstract

Background: Running-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries (RRMI) may be defined as the acute or overuse injuries that a runner develops during or after participating in running activities. The North Rift region of Kenya, known to many as ―the home and source of champions‖, harbours many runners who participate in running competitions both regionally and internationally. Unfortunately, there is a dearth of data on the RRMI in general. This study therefore aimed to demonstrate the various injuries, their treatment as well as associated risk factors so as to develop future strategies on prevention and management of RRMI. Objective: To determine the types, associated risk factors and treatment of RRMI among the runners in the North Rift region of Kenya. Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study of Kenyan runners carried out at various training camps within the North Rift region of Kenya. Purposive sampling technique was used to select Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet and Nandi counties within the North Rift region. Through convenience sampling, training camps with similar climatic characteristics in Kaptagat, Iten, Kapsabet and Kapng’etunyi were selected then all runners available at the particular time of visit were recruited. The study proposal was approved by IREC. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Collected data included bio data, runners’ training schedules, injury history, treatment and physical examination. Data analysis was done using R statistical package. Results: A total of 108 runners were interviewed with a male to female ratio of 5:1. Two hundred and twelve injuries had been sustained by 93.5% of the runners. The most common location of injury encountered were; 43(39.8%) posterior thigh (hamstring), 33(30.6%) knee, 30(27.8%) Achilles tendon and 24(22.2%) groin injuries. Hip injuries were common in females while males sustained more groin injuries. About 67% of the participants trained more than 15 hours per week while 75% ran over 150km weekly without recommended rest. There was poor health seeking behaviour with only 19% of the RRMI being seen in hospitals while the rest undergoing massaging within the camps for almost all the injuries. Lack of proper follow-up plan and an early return to running before complete healing were noted. Conclusion: A high rate of injury at 93.5% in the last 3 years was recorded which was predominated by hamstring injuries. Most runners practised overtraining, used medicated ointments for first aid then underwent physiotherapy within the camps without proper investigations and thereafter returned to training before full recovery. Recommendations: Establishing a Sports Care Centre that will institute measures aimed at reducing the high rate of injuries including preventive strategies through health literacy as well as early diagnosis and management of RRMI by sports physicians.