title: Evaluation of venous flow by light reflection rheography (LRR) in athletes performing track race.
abstract: The venous flow physiology in the athletes represents an interesting research field of sports angiology. The frequent observation of phlebectasias and/or varicose veins in athletes incited us to investigate the venous pathophysiological mechanisms predisposing them to such diseases. The maximal venous outflow (Rmax in millivolts) and the 1/2 venous refilling time (1/2 VRT in seconds) were evaluated in track racers, at rest and after exercise, by means of the light reflexion rheography (LRR). Thirty-two athletes (16 males, 16 females; mean age 23.4 years, range 15-37) were studied, dividing them in three groups: (A) 100 m (13), (B) 2,000 m (13), (C) 6 x 100 m with 2 minute recovery time (6). Among them six athletes performed the test wearing elastic compression stockings (25-32 mmHg). The results demonstrated a significant post-exercise modification of LRR curves and parameters in all groups, testifying superficial venous flow augmentation and deep venous flow overloading.
authors.affiliation: I Department of Surgery, University of Rome La Sapienza, Italy.
authors.forename: V
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Sciacca
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Buonopera
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Mingoli
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Di Marzo
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Matteucci
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002196:Capillaries / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg / Q000098:blood supply*; D008297:Male; D012212:Rheology; D012867:Skin / Q000098:blood supply; D014142:Track and Field; D014648:Varicose Veins / Q000209:etiology