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Swiss International Mountain Marathon

Medical Information Sheet

Introduction

Dr. med. Beat + Max Hintermann are doctors interested in sports and have been actively involved in our event from the beginning. Previously as victorious top runners and then as our competition doctors for many years! The Mountain Marathon has become an adventurous sporting highlight not only for highly trained top athletes. Extreme conditions in terms of weather and terrain mean, on the one hand, a particular challenge, but on the other hand, they also place extreme demands on the body and on physical and psychological resistance. As experienced KARRIMOR freaks and medical professionals interested in running, we would like to use the following lines to help make this competition an experience.

Contents leaflet

We have prepared the contents of the information sheet linked above again here for a simple overview:

  • Preparation

    Regular endurance training is indispensable for this 2-day competition. A long jogging in the pre-Alps or in the Jura is highly recommended in advance, whereby the hydration and running with backpack should be practiced.

    In the last few days before the competition attention should be paid not only to a very limited training of adequate rest and especially to ideal nutrition. This should consist mainly of carbohydrates in the last two to three days. Care must be taken to ensure adequate hydration at the same time.

  • Behavior in competition

    Do not start too fast because otherwise, in addition to excessive forces, a relatively large amount of energy and fluid reserves will be lost! On the way early, in warm temperatures, start with regular hydration after half an hour. Especially recommended: hypotonic diluted Isostar, Rivella marathon, ice tea, etc. from the bag. Avoid one-sidedness! For this, eat smaller, easily digested and carbohydrate-rich snacks such as fruit slices, beavers, chocolate sticks, etc. and rinse with liquid (isontonization effect).

    The competition dresses must necessarily adapt to the weather; while ensuring adequate protection against cold and moisture. Cap in strong sun!

  • Behavior in the bivouac

    Here, the focus is on regeneration, and it is here that the most sinned. The body care is a matter of course and guarantees, among other things, a warm night. The energy supply must often be forced against the will of the body and has to be continuous for hours. Anyone who can not normally dissolve water until lying down in the sleeping bag has probably drunk too little ... Of course it is worthwhile to put on the available clothes overnight in a targeted and timely manner, before the body has cooled down once.

  • Behavior in case of accidents

    Heavy accidents

    Store patients properly and protect them from the weather, trigger an alarm as soon as possible. Determine position coordinates exactly! If the injured person has to be left, leave him in a secure position, provided the state of shock can not be ruled out. Ev. Mark the scene of the accident to make it easier to locate it from the air.

    Simple injuries

    For common “minor” injuries to the musculoskeletal system, such as ankle or knee sprains, if possible, cool and elevate immediately. Transport must be based on local possibilities; improvised immobilization may be necessary. Basically the same applies to bruises. Open injuries require specialist care, if possible within six hours, in order to prevent wound healing problems or even infections. Because of the general risk of small skin wounds, it is recommended to check whether a tetanus vaccination has been carried out in the last five years. Overuse injuries such as blisters, tendonitis or back pain caused by the backpack are unpleasant, but do not require immediate measures. They can usually be avoided through thorough preparation.

    Hunger cast (hypoglycaemia)

    Is a result of excessive lowering of blood sugar. Signs are poor concentration, tripping, trembling, general weakness, cold sweat, malaise, etc. Stop immediately, give glucose, other sweets and sweet drinks, put on warm clothes. Must stop until recovery, then continue slowly. Continue to feed to avoid impending relapse!

    Stomach cramps

    May occur due to excessive intake of concentrated sugars. A varied snack and adequate hypotonic hydration prevent this.

    leg cramps

    Are a sign of excessive muscle fatigue. It has been proven that these occur more frequently in electrolyte deficiency; Potassium and magnesium play a central role. With ordinary salt tablets, however, "only" sodium and chlorine are added, which can additionally trigger nausea. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to the electrolyte composition of the drinks. In existing muscle spasms, gently stretch muscles (by partner!), Do not lie down, but move easily.

    Blow

    To be identified in time and to protect against further mechanical irritation, in particular, try to prevent it from leaking. Carefully puncture blisters on the edge with a needle and squeeze out.

    Tape

    Can protect against representation, but only if used properly. It should be noted a significant decrease in effectiveness after one to two hours, then when the body fatigues.

  • Pharmacy
    A pocket pharmacy is required; As the most important utensils, in addition to plasters and disinfectants, it is recommended to use one or two elastic bandages and an aluminum blanket, as well as dextrose and painkillers (eg Aspirin, Treupel, Ponstan, Voltaren). A pair of scissors can do a good job.
  • conclusion
    The MOUNTAIN MARATHON is a uniquely beautiful and eventful competition that takes place in the mountains and demands a lot of toughness, will and perseverance. The split in two stages with bivouac in between makes great demands on regeneration and morale, but perhaps also lends the event an adventurous touch. To survive in this competition, in addition to stamina, strength and mental resistance, especially the experience counts. To bring together our experience from a medical point of view was our goal.
Goodbye next Mountain Marathon! Dr. Med. Beat + Max Hintermann