Participating in marathons, such as the recent TCS New York City Marathon, can lead not only to a sense of accomplishment but also to significant physical tolls. A study conducted in 2024 revealed that nearly 40% of runners faced injuries during their training, while approximately 14% sustained injuries during the event itself. According to Dr. Mariam Zakhary, director of running medicine at Mount Sinai’s Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, the rigorous demands of a marathon create unique stresses on the body that can result in both immediate and long-term health issues.
Understanding the various injuries associated with marathon running is crucial for both seasoned athletes and those considering their first race. Medical specialists emphasize that many injuries result from overuse or improper training techniques, and many of these can be mitigated with adequate preparation.
Common Injuries and Their Causes
One prevalent issue among marathon runners is plantar fasciitis, characterized by pain in the heel or arch. Dr. Rock G. Positano, founder of the Non-surgical Foot and Ankle Service, notes that this condition arises from stress on the plantar fascia, which serves as a vital shock absorber. “The marathon stress can accelerate degeneration of the fascia,” he explained, leading to potential tearing.
Another common concern is stress fractures, which are hairline cracks in the bones of the foot and leg, particularly in areas like the metatarsals and tibia. These injuries may not present themselves until days after the race, causing significant swelling and pain when weight is applied.
In addition to foot injuries, marathon runners often face challenges with their tendons. Dr. Adam Bitterman, chair of orthopedic surgery at Huntington Hospital, describes Achilles tendinopathy as a frequent condition resulting from repetitive strain, particularly when runners increase their mileage rapidly or navigate hilly terrain. This can lead to inflammation in the Achilles tendon, causing substantial discomfort.
Additional Health Risks
Beyond musculoskeletal injuries, marathon running can also lead to gastrointestinal issues. Dr. Dana Zalkin, a gastroenterologist, points out that during a race, blood flow shifts away from the digestive system, often resulting in symptoms like diarrhea, commonly referred to as “runner’s trots.” This reduction in blood flow can irritate the gut, exacerbated by dehydration.
Runners are also at risk of skin conditions such as friction blisters and jogger’s nipple, which occur due to the repetitive motion and friction against clothing. Dr. Jacob Beer, a board-certified dermatologist, explains that these issues arise particularly in areas prone to chafing, such as the inner thighs and underarms.
Moreover, marathon participants may experience a temporary weakening of the immune system following the race, increasing susceptibility to infections. Research indicates that this vulnerability can last from 3 to 72 hours post-race, with many runners reporting colds or other illnesses shortly thereafter.
One of the more alarming findings comes from a 2025 study which suggests that marathon running could potentially increase the risk of colorectal cancer. In this research, nearly 50% of participants aged 35 to 50, who had completed multiple marathons, exhibited precancerous polyps. This prevalence is significantly higher than the 1%–2% typically observed in average-risk adults.
As marathon season continues, understanding these health risks becomes essential for runners. Proper training, awareness of bodily signals, and post-race recovery strategies can help mitigate many of these potential issues, allowing athletes to enjoy the sport with fewer long-term consequences.
