From the Editor-in-Chief . . .
In the 15 July issue of the journal, Zimmermann and colleagues present an interesting and informative article regarding exercise-related leg pain in military service members. Chronic leg pain is a common overuse injury and is diagnosed with an intracompartmental pressure measurement obtained with insertion of a needle 1-min post standardized exertion. As one can imagine, the diagnosis procedure itself (needle) has the potential of significant discomfort and the relationship between pressure and the severity of symptoms is unknown. The tests to identify and diagnose exercise related leg pain are described in conjunction with a standardized treadmill protocol. Fortunately for the patient, the areas indicated for pressure measurements are anesthetized with xylocaine prior to needle insertion. The authors offer an interesting discussion of the results, often not as expected regarding symptoms, pain and intracompartmental pressures. Although conducted in military personnel, this investigation of leg pain has wide spread implications to many populations who have high levels of physical activity that relies on locomotion.
The Translational Journal of The American College of Sports Medicine welcomes articles that describe the utility of physical activity for communities of individuals and the general population.
Joseph E. Donnelly, EdD, FACSM
