The number of young women playing sports has skyrocketed. Before Title IX was passed in 1972, only one in 27 girls played sports. Now that number is two in five. However, as the number of athletes has grown so has the number of injuries. In fact, certain injuries, such as ACL tears, ankle sprains, and stress
fractures, are more common in female athletes than in men.
While the current research doesn't have a definitive answer for why this is the case, the main theories point to anatomical differences between men and women, as well as hormonal differences.
Why are ACL tears more common in women?
Men and women do not have the same anatomy. For example, the female pelvis is wider. This changes how the thigh bone, tibia, and femur function. More stress is placed on the soft tissue that support your joints, and this increased stress can lead to overuse and sudden injuries.
In fact, a wider pelvis may contribute significantly to ACL tears. It's estimated that female athletes are two to eight times more likely to experience an ACL tear. The ACL is a ligament that connects the femur to the tibia. While this ligament is extremely strong, it's also very rigid. Once the ACL takes enough stress, it suddenly tears with little warning. This is why ACL tears are most common in sports where athletes are jumping or pivoting frequently, such as soccer, basketball, lacrosse and tennis.
How can women athletes prevent ACL tears?
If you participate in a sport that contains a lot of jumping, hopping, and pivoting, speak with an athletic trainer, physical therapist or physician. They can offer ACL injury prevention programs that teach women how to quickly stabilize your body during falls or sharp movements.
Nutrition also plays a significant role in preventing injuries. Poor nutrition can lead to conditions that increase the risk of injury. Fatigue is just one example. Not drinking enough fluids or consuming enough calories can lead to low bone mineral density or an iron deficiency, both of which can increase the risk of injury.
Female athletes have even more to consider when considering nutrition. Research has shown a relationship between injuries and disordered eating, menstrual dysfunction and low bone mineral density. This is why proper nutrition strategies be part of the overall preventative process against ACL
tears and other injuries.
Why choose Loyola?
Female athletes don't have to deal with ACL prevention alone. At Loyola, our physicians have vast experience with helping female athletes prevent and treat injuries. The Sports Medicine department at Loyola Medicine has one of the most comprehensive and advanced teams in the nation, with primary
and specialty care offices conveniently located throughout Chicago’s western and southwestern suburbs.
To see a Loyola physician, schedule an appointment online.