The Kauai Marathon 2011: Getting Directly Involved

The Kauai Marathon 2011: Getting Directly Involved

September 4^th, 2011

Six PTs on Kauai took on the challenge of treating pro bono at the finish line of the Kauai Marathon this year. 1720 runners took on one of the hardest courses around. Here’s how it played out.

Early in the morning we setup the treatment tables in the PT tent, just feet from the ocean. We brought ice bags, saran wrap, hand disinfectant, “the stick”, calf stretch- slope, and post marathon handouts. We were right beside the medical tent, with cots, RN’s, Doc’s, IV’s, and whatever else.

The runners started with a bang. Some finished with a thud, onto the PT tables that is. Most required gentle stretching for hamstring, calf, iliopsoas, piriformis, ITB, and toe cramps. Some were so drained, we referred them back to the Doc’s and RNs to check BPs and hydrate, or otherwise take care. It was triage PT, with many finishing at the same time and needing simultaneous services to various degrees. I saw two come through with bilateral total knee replacement histories. One finisher told me he “loved me more than his wife right now” and I’m not sure what that was about. In all the fun, sun, run, and pun, we looked for trends. Footwear choices were diverse. Barefoot, rubber slippas, Converse All-Stars, and traditional running shoes of all shapes and mileages showed up. Making the scene, were the relatively new “Five-fingers”, and other, minimalist shoe choices.

It seems that a lower heel cushion lands runners on the mid to forefoot, and actually shortens stride and decreases heel, ankle, and knee impacts. This was supported by many of the accomplished runners that day. Granted those receiving PT at the finish may be hurting, but they made comments like “my knees always swell after a marathon, but (with minimalist shoes) my ankles and feet don’t hurt”. I asked if the shorter, quieter strides slowed them down, but a runner told me he was just as fast in his closed toe, flat sole minimal shoes.

Well I guess direct access means we were legally able to provide treatment in a timely situation for those athletes. Meanwhile we learned, stretched, iced, admired, and laughed a lot. I don’t know if I could ever run a marathon, but I know I would work it again next year. I’m glad that direct access allows PTs to be closer to the action in our Hawaii community, as we grow into the many ways.

Writer: Gregg Pacilio PT | Kauai Region PT Director, HHSC