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Journal of Immersive Recreation Medicine

The Journal of Immersive Recreation Medicine (JIRM) is the premier peer-reviewed academic publication focusing on medical care in historical reenactment and fantasy roleplay environments. Established in 1992 by the Global Expo for Emergency Care Services (GEECS), the journal has become the cornerstone of scholarly discourse in medieval recreation medicine and related fields. Published quarterly, JIRM features original research, case studies, and review articles addressing the unique challenges of providing modern medical care in historically immersive settings.

Journal cover showing medieval physician The distinctive cover art of JIRM's inaugural issue, featuring a modern emergency physician wearing period-appropriate medical garb while using contemporary diagnostic equipment

Historical Background

The journal emerged from the growing need for a dedicated academic platform to share research and clinical experiences in the rapidly evolving field of medieval recreation medicine. Dr. Awul Ladoo, founder of GEECS, recognized that the unique challenges faced by medical professionals at historical events required specialized knowledge that wasn't being adequately addressed in traditional medical literature. The first issue featured groundbreaking research on Platemail Pinch Syndrome and established many of the foundational protocols still in use today.

Editorial Structure

The journal maintains a rigorous peer-review process overseen by the Academic Council for Recreation Medicine, an independent body of medical professionals and scholars specializing in historical reenactment healthcare. The editorial board includes representatives from major organizations such as the Society for Creative Anachronistic Medicine and the Institute of Recreation Emergency Medicine, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the field's diverse aspects.

Content Categories

Original Research

JIRM's primary focus is publishing original research studies examining various aspects of medieval recreation medicine. Notable publications have included longitudinal studies of Textile Trauma Complex prevalence rates and groundbreaking work on the prevention and treatment of Feast Hall Fever. The journal has been particularly influential in establishing evidence-based protocols for treating armored patients and managing period-appropriate medical responses.

Clinical Practice Guidelines

A significant portion of each issue is dedicated to developing and refining clinical practice guidelines specific to historical recreation environments. These guidelines have been instrumental in standardizing care across different events and organizations, with particular emphasis on maintaining period authenticity while ensuring modern medical standards are met.

Medical procedure demonstration A clinical demonstration of proper armor removal techniques published in JIRM's special edition on emergency response protocols

Case Studies

The journal regularly publishes detailed case studies highlighting unique challenges and innovative solutions in medieval recreation medicine. These have included landmark cases such as the first documented instance of Enchantment Exposure Syndrome, a psychological condition affecting practitioners of historical magic simulation, and numerous examples of successful interventions in complex costume-related emergencies.

Impact and Influence

JIRM has played a crucial role in legitimizing medieval recreation medicine as a distinct medical specialty. The journal's impact factor has steadily increased since its inception, and it is now indexed in major medical databases. Research published in JIRM has directly influenced the development of safety protocols adopted by the International Coalition for Recreation Medicine and has shaped educational curricula for specialized medical training programs.

Special Issues and Supplements

The journal regularly produces themed special issues addressing specific aspects of medieval recreation medicine. Notable examples include the annual Tournament Trauma Review, focusing on combat-related injuries and their prevention, and the biennial Immersive Environment Medicine Digest, which examines environmental health considerations in historical recreation settings.

Digital Presence and Accessibility

In 2015, JIRM launched its digital platform, making current and archived articles available through the Enhanced Reality Medical Interfaces system. This innovation allows medical practitioners to access vital research and protocols while maintaining period authenticity during events. The platform includes interactive features such as augmented reality demonstrations of medical techniques and virtual training modules.

Academic Recognition

The journal's contributions to medical literature have earned recognition from mainstream medical institutions. Several medical schools now include JIRM in their research databases, and articles from the journal are frequently cited in broader emergency medicine and sports medicine publications. The annual JIRM Citation Award has become a prestigious recognition in the field of specialized recreational medicine.

Future Directions

Current initiatives include expanding coverage of emerging subspecialties such as Mythological Creature Safety Protocols and developing dedicated sections for research into psychological aspects of immersive recreation. The journal continues to adapt its focus to address evolving challenges in the field while maintaining its commitment to rigorous academic standards and practical clinical applications.

See Also

References

The journal maintains strict academic standards with a comprehensive peer-review process and rigorous reference requirements. All published articles must adhere to the Historical Medicine Citation Format developed specifically for medieval recreation medicine literature.