Athletes and Emu Oil, A new way to relieve pain, stains, stiffness

DALLAS, TEXAS-- Jeff Berthelsen, a 26-year-old triathlete, has had chronic knee problems since high school. After intensive training sessions, using emu oil on his knees helps alleviate pain and stiffness. Ronald Thoma, a senior triathlete, also uses emu oil to maintain flexibility and for back pain after competition.

Members of the American Emu Association have had similar reports from other athletes across the nation and from collegiate and professional sports teams,as well. "We're finding more athletes using emu-based creams and emu oil as part of their training regimen and for rehabilitation," said Neil Williams, president of the AEA. "And because emu oil is relatively new in the marketplace, most people are surprised about how effective it is."

Doug Adkinson, a team trainer with the National Basketball Association for 30 years, said he learned about the anti-inflammatory properties of emu oil in 1992. One of the Dallas Mavericks, Fat Lever, had undergone surgery on both knees and after two years in rehabilitation, was still unable to play because of swelling and inflammation.

"Within six weeks after using emu oil, the inflammation and swelling was gone and Lever was able to practice and play without limitation," said Atkinson, who has retired and now ownes a wellness firm that markets emu-based products. nnn