MR imaging of the knee in marathon runners before and after competition

Objective. To evaluate the findings in MRI-studies of the knee in recreatio nal long-distance runners after competition and to assess the reversibility of the findings. Design and patients. Eight recreational long-distance runners underwent MRI studies of the knee before, immediately after and 6-8 weeks after taking p art in the Vienna City Marathon. The studies were evaluated regarding alter ations of pre-existing lesions and new pathological findings. Results. In six runners without major pre-existing alterations no negative effects were experienced. In one runner with pre-existing grade III alterat ions of the menisci, signs of progressive osteoarthritis were experienced 2 months after the competition. In all other cases increased meniscal signal alterations and minor signal changes in the bone marrow after the race wer e transitory. Conclusion. In healthy individuals no negative long-term-effects were exper ienced. Pre-existing high-grade lesions of the menisci might be a predispos ing risk for osteoarthritis, triggered by the stress of long-distance runni ng.