Can I take pain killers during a running race?

Marathon runners and walkers often want to take pain relievers before or during a marathon. You may wake up on race morning with a headache, muscle aches, or arthritis pain. read more

However, I do take pain killers when doing a half marathon or longer. I do have a unique situation. 11 years ago I had a major bicycle accident. Pretty much my whole left side was broken, but the most serious was multiple fractures at the top of my left femur. read more

Unfortunately, pain relievers can cause problems during the marathon. A study of almost 4,000 marathon runners found more five times more adverse effects during the race among those who took over-the-counter pain relievers before the race. read more

Not so, says science – among Western States Endurance Run competitors, researchers found no reduction in pain and muscle soreness between those who had and hadn’t taken painkillers. In fact, the pill-poppers actually reported more inflammation and pain. read more