Journal of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation

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Rapid Communication - Journal of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation (2023) Volume 7, Issue 2

The risk of anterior cruciate ligament rupture in female athletes is three times higher

Xiaoqiang Zhao*

Department of Nephrology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China

*Corresponding Author:
Xiaoqiang Zhao
Department of Nephrology
Fudan University
Shanghai, China
E-mail: zhao.xiaoqia@zs-hosp.sh.cn

Received: 23-Feb-2023, Manuscript No. AAOSR-23-90034; Editor assigned: 27 -Feb-2023, PreQC No. AAOSR-23-90034(PQ); Reviewed: 13-Mar-2023, QC No. AAOSR-23-90034; Revised: 17-Mar-2023, Manuscript No. AAOSR-23-90034(R); Published: 24-Mar-2023, DOI: 10.35841/aaosr-7.2.137

Citation: Zhao X. The risk of anterior cruciate ligament rupture in female athletes is three times higher. J Ortho Sur Reh. 2023;7(2):137

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Abstract

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries are one of the most common types of sports injuries. They occur when the ligament that connects the thighbone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia) is torn or ruptured. This injury can occur in any sport that involves pivoting, jumping, or sudden changes of direction. However, research shows that the risk of ACL injury in female athletes is three times higher than in male athletes.

Abstract

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries are one of the most common types of sports injuries. They occur when the ligament that connects the thighbone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia) is torn or ruptured. This injury can occur in any sport that involves pivoting, jumping, or sudden changes of direction. However, research shows that the risk of ACL injury in female athletes is three times higher than in male athletes.

Keywords

Anterior Cruciate Ligament, Female athletes, Femur, Tibia.

Introduction

The ACL is one of four main ligaments in the knee joint, and it plays a critical role in stabilizing the knee during movement. When an athlete suffers an ACL injury, they often experience a sudden popping sensation, followed by severe pain and swelling in the knee. The injury can be severe enough to require surgery and several months of rehabilitation to regain full function of the knee [1].

The reason for the increased risk of ACL injury in female athletes is not entirely clear. However, research has identified several factors that may contribute to this higher risk. One of the primary factors is differences in anatomy between male and female athletes. Females tend to have a narrower intercondylar notch, which is the space between the two bumps at the bottom of the thighbone. This narrower space can increase the risk of the ACL getting caught and tearing during certain movements. Additionally, females tend to have a smaller ACL in terms of both length and cross-sectional area, which can make the ligament more susceptible to injury [2].

Hormonal differences may also contribute to the higher risk of ACL injury in females. The hormone estrogen has been shown to weaken the ACL by reducing its strength and stiffness. This hormonal effect can be particularly pronounced during the menstrual cycle, when estrogen levels are higher. Another factor that may contribute to the higher risk of ACL injury in females is differences in neuromuscular control. Research has shown that females tend to have weaker quadriceps and hamstring muscles than males, which can make the knee joint more susceptible to injury. Additionally, females tend to have a different movement pattern when landing from a jump or changing direction, which can place more stress on the knee joint [3].

There are also differences in the types of sports that females and males participate in, which may contribute to the higher risk of ACL injury in females. Sports that involve jumping, cutting, and pivoting, such as basketball, soccer, and volleyball, have a higher incidence of ACL injury than sports that involve primarily running, such as track and field. Prevention strategies are essential in reducing the risk of ACL injury in female athletes. One effective strategy is neuromuscular training, which focuses on improving strength, balance, and coordination to reduce the risk of injury. These exercises can help females develop proper landing and cutting techniques, which can reduce the stress on the knee joint [4].

Additionally, proper footwear and equipment can play a crucial role in injury prevention. Athletes should wear appropriate shoes that provide support and stability during jumping and cutting movements. Additionally, protective knee braces may be helpful in reducing the risk of ACL injury in certain sports. Finally, injury prevention programs should focus on educating athletes, coaches, and parents about the risks of ACL injury and the importance of taking steps to reduce the risk. Athletes should be encouraged to speak up if they experience pain or discomfort in the knee joint, and coaches should be trained to recognize the signs of injury and provide appropriate treatment [5].

Conclusion

The risk of ACL injury in female athletes is three times higher than in male athletes. This increased risk is likely due to a combination of factors, including differences in anatomy, hormonal differences, neuromuscular control, and the types of sports in which females participate. Several prevention programs have been developed that focus on improving neuromuscular control, strengthening the lower extremity muscles, and improving landing and cutting techniques. These programs have been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of ACL injury in female athletes.

References

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