Using Menthol before running?
Question:I was reading in an issue of Runner's Magazine that if you can't get ice after a run use a menthol patch because it increases blood flow to the applied area...this got me thinking what if I put on some menthol cream before running a race to get blood to my leg muscles my question: is this a good idea and is it safe?
ps I run the 400 so it's not long distance
Answers:
To reply to a previous response: Yes, icing reduces blood flow to the area, which reduces inflammation, while you are icing. The reason icing works is because when you remove the ice, blood rushes back to the area, bringing nutrients and helping your body recover.
I have very big pain everyday after i run the mile for warm up?
Try it, to see what happens, it sounds like it could work. But do it not on a real race, just practice to see if it works firstCan you help me with my Polar F4 heart rate monitor?
Well lets see the whole point of ice is to stop the blood flow which in return limits the pain you feel. So if you use menthol on an injury you will end up causing more damage then you think. Running distance is no joke. If you are doing a sport like track then yes I would not see a problem using it. I use to use bengay and then wrap my leg. That stuff works great. I use to run the 200, 400H ,100H ,and pole volt. Good luck and let me know how it works if you do decided to use it.More Questions & Answers...