Oxford University Study Shows Quick Pain Relief with Biofreeze
This study presents new insights supporting the effectiveness of menthol in managing pain.
Researchers from Oxford University have unveiled groundbreaking findings regarding the use of topical menthol for pain relief among runners. During a prominent marathon event, the study demonstrated that the application of Biofreeze led to significant pain reduction for athletes. This first-of-its-kind research was spearheaded by Dr. Rebeccah Slater, a noted academic at Oxford, showcasing that 70% of participating runners experienced a noticeable drop in pain levels within just 10 seconds of using Biofreeze. This rapid relief corresponded to an impressive 35% reduction in pain as measured on a 0-10 scale of severity.
This innovative study was conducted during a major marathon event and is essential for understanding how pain relief measures can be effectively applied in real-world scenarios, unlike traditional lab environments. Dr. Slater passionately communicated the importance of such studies during her presentation at the PAINWeek conference, emphasizing its relevance for everyday athletes facing the rigors of competition.
Among the key findings, an overwhelming 89% of marathon participants reported that menthol application contributed to their recovery post-race. Interestingly, while women were more frequently affected by knee and hip pain, men reported experiencing a higher average pain score than their female counterparts during the marathon.
“The compelling results from this research provide essential data that reflects real experiences of runners,” stated Dr. Slater. “This information is crucial, particularly for individuals dealing with sports-related aches in their daily lives.”
The assessment involved 192 marathon runners at the finish line. Initially, participants expressed pain levels averaging slightly above six on the visual analog scale. Remarkably, only ten seconds post-Biofreeze application, the average pain score fell to four, highlighting the product's efficacy. Researchers concluded that the relief reported was genuine and not merely a placebo effect, as expectations did not influence outcomes.
Mark Pearson, the Global Vice President for Wellness at Reckitt, recognized the collaboration with Oxford University, acknowledging that it validated the real-life experiences of runners with Biofreeze. His commitment to supporting athletes in achieving their best performance was evident as he looked forward to continuing this study for the upcoming Chicago Marathon.
Since 2018, Biofreeze has played a crucial role in the Chicago Marathon by establishing Pain Relief Zones for runners, particularly at mile 21, known for its challenging nature. At this designated area, athletes received Biofreeze cooling spray to withstand the latter stages of the race. Excitingly, Biofreeze has plans to extend its supportive initiatives to the Twin Cities and Dallas marathons, enhancing the experience for even more participants.
Biofreeze prides itself on being a trusted name in the field of menthol topical pain relief, widely preferred by athletes and healthcare professionals alike for over 30 years. Its rapid-acting formula targets sore muscles and joints efficiently. Following its expansion into retail in 2016, Biofreeze has quickly risen to prominence in the consumer health market, garnering awards that recognize its innovation and high performance.
For more information about Biofreeze and its extensive offerings, audiences can visit their official website.
About Biofreeze
Biofreeze is recognized as the top clinician recommended brand for menthol topical pain relief. The brand has established trust among athletes, chiropractors, and various therapists for providing rapid cold therapy for a multitude of pain-related issues. Its success has soared in recent years as it becomes a favorite among retail customers as well.
About Reckitt
Reckitt dedicates itself to developing products that enhance the health and hygiene of families around the globe. Home to some of the most recognized brands in health and home care, Reckitt remains focused on creating innovative solutions designed to improve lives. The company's commitment extends beyond the products they create, as they strive to implement sustainable practices that contribute positively to communities and the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the study by Oxford University focus on?
The study examines the effectiveness of topical menthol, specifically Biofreeze, in providing rapid pain relief for marathon runners.
How many runners participated in this study?
A total of 192 marathon runners were assessed during the research at the finish line.
What was the reported percentage of runners experiencing pain relief?
Approximately 70% of runners reported meaningful pain relief within just 10 seconds of applying Biofreeze.
What are the common pain areas reported by participants?
Study participants commonly reported knee and hip pain, particularly among women, while men reported higher average pain scores.
How does Biofreeze support marathon runners?
Biofreeze has sponsored the Chicago Marathon and established Pain Relief Zones along the race course, providing cooling spray to help runners cope with pain during the event.
