This comprehensive discussion of a developing branch of sports medicine focuses on treating athletes involved in endurance events, including runners, swimmers, bikers, triathletes, rowers, adventure racers, military personnel, and cross-fit athletes. It emphasizes strategies for injury treatment and prevention while optimizing performance, organized into three thematic sections. The first section addresses common medical conditions faced by endurance athletes, such as cardiovascular issues, asthma, and heat- and altitude-related illnesses, along with considerations for gender differences, pregnancy, and pediatric athletes. The second section delves into the management of musculoskeletal conditions, including stress fractures, overuse injuries, compartment syndrome, and exercise-related osteoarthritis. The final section covers special considerations for endurance athletes, such as gait and swim-stroke analysis, bike fitting, mental preparation, nutrition optimization, event medical coverage, and return-to-play decision-making. This timely and concise collection serves as a valuable resource for sports medicine physicians, orthopedists, athletic trainers, physical therapists, coaches, officials, and athletes, enhancing their understanding of the unique needs of those engaged in endurance sports.
