From Performance to Pathology: Altitude Medicine Unpacked

From Performance to Pathology: Altitude Medicine Unpacked

Author: South African Sports Medicine Association April 24, 2026 Duration: 24:00

In this episode of the SASMA Podcast, host Dr Kerry Walton is joined by Dr Sean Gottschalk to explore the extremes of emergency and sport and exercise medicine: Exercising at altitude. Inspired by insights from their own experiences, Sean and Kerry share some top tips on expeditions to altitude and what to expect and be ready for in terms of medical challenges.

10 top tips for aspiring expedition medics on how to summit Mount Kilimanjaro:

1) Get yourself a mentor

2) Befriend the stair master at the gym

3) Do not compromise on gear (especially your sleeping bag)

4) Wear in your hiking boots

5) Double glove

6) Protect your eyes

7) Create a ‘buddy system’ amongst the hikers

8) ‘Pole Pole’ (Ascend slowly)

9) ‘Sippy Sippy’ (Stay hydrated)

10) Success is getting everyone down safely, not to the summit.


Produced by the South African Sports Medicine Association, SASMA connects the dots between clinical research and the real-world demands of training and competition. This isn't just a lecture series; it's a vital dialogue for anyone invested in athletic performance and well-being. You'll hear experienced sports medicine professionals in candid conversation with the physicians, physiotherapists, sports scientists, and psychologists who work at the forefront of the field. Their discussions delve into the practical applications of new studies, break down emerging treatment innovations, and debate evolving best practices. Whether you're an athlete fine-tuning your recovery, a coach designing safer programs, or a medical practitioner looking to deepen your knowledge, this podcast serves as an ongoing seminar. The conversations are detailed and nuanced, offering actionable insights that bridge the gap between the journal article and the clinic, the lab and the field. Tune in to SASMA for a thoughtful exploration of how the science of sports medicine is continuously refined, challenged, and put into practice.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 43

SASMA
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