Article Blog 14: Technology Plays Role in Marathons (April 25, 2009)

Marathons and other long distance races have been becoming more popular over the last few years, and as a result, the more racers means there is more of a need to use technology to watch hundreds of racers in case injuries come into play during the race. In the article, "Technology May Help Injured Marathoners," (see link: http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/booster_shots/2010/04/technology-may-help-injured-marathoners-during-a-race.html) Jeannine Stein explains why it is important for doctors and medical physicians to use technology to keep an eye on the runners throughout the race. Stein stresses the importance of communication between runners, doctors, and family members throughout the race. Stein writes, "After collecting data from a few races, however, Guyer hopes race providers will be better prepared to handle serious problems such as heart attacks by placing doctors, physical therapists and other medical staff, plus defibrillators, at key points along the route." Using technology during marathons will only improve the quality of health and concerns throughout a long distance race.

Technology has the ability to play an important role in marathons. Marathons are long distance races that with hundreds, even thousands of racers at some events makes doctors and physical therapists aware of the injuries and life threatening situations, such as heart attacks, that can occur throughout the longevity of a course. In the article, "Electronic Medical Record Technology Aids Marathon Participants," (see link: http://www.chiroeco.com/chiropractic/news/9526/865/Electronic-medical-record-technology-aids-marathon-participants/) it shows that technology helped facilitate the care of the 19,372 runners at the 2009 Detroit Free Press Marathon. This is extremely important to society because not only does it improve the quality of marathons, but it makes sure that every individual runner is accounted for from a health perspective. This article brings to the forefront the benefits associated with using technology to facilitate the care of runners. "All medical team members were able to coordinate patient care in real time with other medical providers and hospitals. Race organizers and staff could quickly assist families in locating injured marathon participants or spectators along the route. Researchers will have data available to them that should improve the ability to identify trends in injury patterns and as such, improve the preparation for future mass participation events." The use of technology will greatly impact marathons. By health and safety issues being taken care of and watched for during these large events, this could ultimately lead to even more participants in marathons.