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Episode Summary: In this episode, we explore the fascinating role of Vitamin C in tendon recovery, collagen synthesis, and tendinopathy prevention. Brodie dives into the latest research to examine how Vitamin C-enriched supplements, when combined with exercises, can potentially enhance tendon healing and performance.

He discusses two key studies:
1.) Vitamin C–enriched gelatin supplementation before intermittent activity augments collagen synthesis
2.) Effect of Vitamin C on Tendinopathy Recovery: A Scoping Review

The conversation highlights the potential benefits and limitations of Vitamin C in injury recovery, offering practical insights for runners and those dealing with tendon injuries.

Key Takeaways:

1. Vitamin C and Tendon Health: Vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, which is essential for tendon repair and recovery. Collagen makes up 60-75% of tendons, making its synthesis critical for both injury recovery and performance enhancement.
2. Research Insights:
   • A 2017 study found that supplementing with Vitamin C-enriched gelatin before intermittent exercise doubled collagen synthesis in participants, suggesting a potential benefit for injury prevention and tissue repair.
   • A scoping review on Vitamin C’s role in tendinopathy recovery shows promising but inconsistent results, particularly when Vitamin C is combined with other nutrients like mucopolysaccharides and type 1 collagen.
3. Practical Application:
   • While there isn’t a definitive recommendation on the optimal dosage or timing of Vitamin C for tendon recovery, the studies suggest considering Vitamin C-enriched supplements, especially for athletes under intense training or those dealing with tendinopathies.
   • Other factors like proper nutrition, rest, and reducing alcohol intake are also critical for maximizing tendon recovery.

Why Listen? Whether you're recovering from an injury or looking to optimize your tendon health for peak performance, this episode offers valuable insights. With research-backed information and practical advice, Brodie simplifies the complex science behind tendon recovery and how you can potentially leverage Vitamin C for faster recovery and stronger tendons.

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Papers discussed on today's episode:

Paper 1: Foot Posture and Ankle Dorsiflexion as Risk Factors for Developing Achilles Tendinopathy and Plantar Fasciitis: A Case-Control Study

Paper 2: Evaluating the Effectiveness of the Annual Physical Training Plan for Masters +45 Women Half Marathon Athletes: AGuideline Model for Good Practices for Programming Effort Volume and Intensity

Paper 3: Acute effects of the short-foot exercise in runners with medial tibial stress syndrome: A quasi-experimental study

For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚
- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓
- The Run Smarter Book 📖
- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍
- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟
👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨

Get Access to Brodie's Running Research Database!

For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚
- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓
- The Run Smarter Book 📖
- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍
- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟
👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨

Summary: In this episode, we dive into a 2023 study that examines the relationship between carbon fiber plate footwear and bone stress injuries in runners. The research is an opinion article, backed by case studies and observations, highlighting potential biomechanical shifts and injury risks that may come with these advanced shoes. We break down the mechanics of carbon fiber shoes, how they work, and their impact on running performance. We also explore five case studies of athletes who developed navicular bone stress injuries while using these shoes, providing valuable insights into the risks, symptoms, and management strategies.

Key Takeaways for Recreational Runners:

1. Carbon Fiber Shoes: Performance Benefits and Misconceptions – Carbon fiber shoes act as a lever, not a spring. While they enhance running performance by providing a more efficient propulsion, their benefits are closely tied to both the carbon plate and the high-tech foam used in the midsole.
2. Biomechanical Changes – Runners using carbon fiber shoes experience changes in biomechanics, such as reduced cadence, longer strides, and increased flight time. These changes could potentially increase the risk of injury, particularly in the foot and ankle.
3. Injury Risks – Bone stress injuries, particularly in the navicular bone, may occur due to the altered distribution of forces in the foot. Athletes in the study experienced symptoms like midfoot pain and swelling after using carbon fiber shoes, leading to long recovery times and, in some cases, surgery.
4. Case Studies – Five detailed case studies offer real-world examples of how runners were affected by bone stress injuries after using carbon fiber shoes. These cases emphasize the importance of symptom awareness, early diagnosis, and gradual rehabilitation.
5. Careful Transition to Carbon Fiber Shoes – Runners should avoid making abrupt transitions into carbon fiber shoes. It’s essential to gradually introduce these shoes into your training routine, starting with slower runs before incorporating speed workouts or races. Failure to do so can lead to severe bone stress injuries, as seen in the case studies.
6. Monitoring Symptoms – Keep an eye out for midfoot pain, especially around the navicular bone. If you experience persistent pain or swelling, seek medical advice and consider getting an MRI or CT scan early to prevent a prolonged recovery process.

This episode provides essential insights for any runner considering carbon fiber footwear, especially those concerned about injury risks and recovery strategies.

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