ACL injuries are a prevalent concern among athletes, especially in sports that involve high-impact movements such as soccer, basketball, and football. The prevalence of ACL injuries is a pressing issue, with approximately 150,000 ACL injuries occurring annually in the United States, predominantly among female athletes in sports like soccer and basketball.
“Female athletes are at higher risk for ACL injuries due to multiple factors, including neuromuscular control, landing techniques, anatomic differences in the knee such as notch size, quad-to-hamstring strength ratios and training styles,”
said Amit Momaya, M.D., chief of University of Alabama at Birmingham Sports and Exercise Medicine, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. The anatomical differences in the knee play a significant role in the increased risk of ACL injuries among female athletes. The notch size in the knee can lead to abnormal stress and strain on the ACL, increasing the likelihood of injury. ACL injuries account for 50 percent of all knee injuries in sports, and research highlights the significant disparity in the risk of ACL injuries between male and female athletes. The key risk factors for ACL injuries include neuromuscular control, landing techniques, and training styles. These factors can be addressed through proactive measures and preventive strategies.
- Dynamic stability and landing techniques training
- Keeping hamstrings strong relative to quadriceps
- Soft landings with mild knee flexion
In addition to preventive measures, early recognition of the signs of ACL injuries is crucial. ACL tears often occur with non-contact mechanisms, characterized by a pop followed by swelling. Athletes should be aware of the following symptoms:
- Knee instability
- Knee giving out
- Swelling
According to Amit Momaya, M.D., athletes should take proactive measures to reduce the risk of ACL injuries. “Athletes should work on dynamic stability and landing techniques,” Momaya said. “Soft landings with mild knee flexion are usually safer than hard landings with knees extended. Also, it is essential to keep hamstrings strong relative to quadriceps for proper stability.”
Following an ACL reconstruction, athletes face a significant challenge in returning to their pre-injury level of performance. Research shows that around 80 percent of athletes return to a relative level of sports, while only 60 percent regain their pre-injury level of performance. To minimize the risk of reinjury, gradual rehabilitation and objective strength testing are essential. The following tests are recommended:
| Isokinetic testing for strength | Functional hop testing |
| Waiting period of at least nine months | Limb symmetry of approximately 85-90 percent |
In conclusion, ACL injuries are a significant concern among athletes, particularly in high-impact sports. By understanding the key risk factors and taking proactive measures, athletes can reduce their risk of ACL injuries. Amit Momaya, M.D., emphasizes the importance of gradual rehabilitation and objective strength testing in minimizing the risk of reinjury after an ACL reconstruction. By following these guidelines, athletes can safely return to their sport and minimize the risk of recurrence.