A Study to Understand the Analgesic Properties of Topically Applied Menthol When Used in a Marathon.

Conditions

• Muscle Soreness

Eligibility Criteria

Sex

ALL

Age

18 Years - N/A

Healthy Volunteers

Accepted

Interventions

• Observational — OTHER
  Pain-experience observational study conducted during a marathon.

Study Details

The purpose of the research study is to gather the opinions and/or perceptions relating to the use of topically applied menthol and experience of pain during and after a marathon in adult runners (18+ years) participating in the 2025 Chicago Marathon. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does topically applied menthol reduce pain levels in marathon runners during recovery? * How quickly does pain relief occur after topically applied menthol application? * What are the sensory attributes (e.g., cooling sensation) associated with topically applied menthol use during and after the race? * How do demographic factors (e.g., age, sex, menstrual cycle stage, sleep quality) influence pain experience and topically applied menthol effectiveness? Researchers will compare pre- and post-application pain scores in the Recovery Application Zone to see if Biofreeze provides measurable pain relief and sensory benefits. Participants will: * Provide documented informed consent prior to participation. * Self-select to use Biofreeze products during or after the race. * Complete one or both of the following: 1. Recovery Application Zone Questionnaire (includes pain score before and after Biofreeze application, sensory assessments, demographics). 2. End of Race Questionnaire (includes retrospective recall of pain relief, product use, sensory experience, and demographic data).

Key Dates

Start date

Oct 12, 2025

Status verified

Apr 2026

Primary completion

Oct 12, 2025

Completion

Oct 12, 2025

Study Design

Enrollment

367 participants (actual)

Arms

• Arm: Chicago Marathon Runners who use topically applied menthol

Primary Outcome Measure

Change in Mean Pain Score [ Time Frame: Day 1 - immediately at the end of the race, assessed within the Recovery Application Zone Questionnaire. ]

Locations (1)

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