Hair Loss in a Female Distance Runner

January 2014 in “ International Journal of Athletic Therapy and training ”

Natalie Kramer, Shelley Croom Blakey, Siobhán M. Statuta, Joseph M. Hart

telogen effluvium hair loss stress orthopedic surgery lateral ankle ligaments hyperthyroidism physiological stressors

TLDR A female runner's hair loss was caused by stress from surgery and recovery, but her hair returned to normal in 5 months.

The document detailed a case where a 22-year-old female collegiate distance runner developed acute telogen effluvium, a type of hair loss, after undergoing orthopedic surgery to repair her lateral ankle ligaments. She was under considerable stress from her desire to return to competitive running, a restrictive diet, and high academic and personal demands. Despite a family history of hyperthyroidism, her blood tests showed no abnormalities. The hair loss was attributed to the physical and emotional stress associated with her surgery and recovery period. Fortunately, her hair density returned to normal within 5 months, allowing her to continue competing at a high level. This case underscores the potential for young athletes to experience telogen effluvium due to physiological stressors, and the importance of recognizing and addressing it promptly.

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Research cited in this study

4 / 4 results

research Diffuse Hair Loss: Its Triggers and Management

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Hair Loss in a Female Distance Runner

Research cited in this study

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