ACL Tears in the Female Athlete: Q&A with Dr. Catherine Logan

Are ACL injuries more common in females than males?

Yes. The young, female athlete is at a 2 to 8 times higher risk to sustain an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during their athletic career.

Why are females at a higher risk than their male counterparts?

Females have an elevated risk for a myriad of reasons not limited to:

• Anatomic differences
• Neuromuscular control (differences in landing techniques)
• Hormonal influences
  • Increased incidence in first half of menstrual cycle

What can athletes do to prevent ACL injury?

While some of these factors are out of the athlete’s control, other factors such as Neuromuscular Control, can be improved upon with proper prevention program. Prevention programs include training focused on balance, strength, proprioception and landing techniques.

The “ACL Play it Safe” app was created as a resource for patients, coaches and athletic trainers to employ proper warm-up techniques for ACL injury prevention. This application is free and can be found in iOS/Android app stores.

Is ACL tear treatment different for female athletes?

The treatment options for ACL tears are the same, regardless of whether the athlete is a male or female. Treatment strategies include physical therapy, bracing and, commonly, surgery (ACL Reconstruction). However, it is important to seek care with an Orthopaedic Surgeon Sports Medicine specialist who understands that the ACL tear mechanism in females is different from how it occurs in males. Individualized post-operative rehabilitation and reducing the risk of a second injury (to the same knee or the other knee) is essential to optimize recovery.