With the increased popularity of women’s sports and the new generation of aspiring female athletes, there has been a rise in female sports participation. However, the increase in participation has also revealed that females have a higher risk of damaging or tearing their ACL during athletic activity.
Studies show that women in general, and adolescent females in particular, are 4 to 8 times more likely to injure their ACL compared to males. This difference in risk of injury is most likely due to the hormonal and anatomical differences between men and women. Women, for example, have a wider pelvis, which causes more pressure towards the inside of the knee and an increased pressure on the ACL.
Women also have a slower response time (a millisecond longer) for the stabilizing muscles in their knee. This millisecond sometimes affects one’s ability to land properly, which often results in ACL injuries.
To reduce the risk of ACL injury, Dr. Millstein suggests the following:
- Avoid landing on a straight knee
- Perform strength training, especially in the legs and core
- Use proper footwear
- Perform balance, speed and plyometric training
Taking our advice can really make a difference, as studies have shown that female athletes who go through proper training and correct their neuromuscular control and mechanics have shown a 70 to 80% decrease in ACL injuries.
If you are suffering from an ACL injury and would like to schedule a consultation to learn more about ACL Reconstructive Surgery with Beverly Hills orthopedic expert Dr. Millstein, please call (310) 595-1030 today!