Can I do anything to prevent ACL tears?
ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) tears are devastating injuries to athletes involved in sports ranging from football to soccer. The ACL is critical for knee stability during “cutting” activities such as zig-zag cutting drills. ACL injuries receive significant media attention because of the high-profile athletes that have suffered ACL tears, from Adrian Peterson to Skylar Diggins. The number of ACL injuries has increased recently because of the increased participation by female athletes.
Women have a much higher risk of ACL injuries compared to their male counterparts, due in large part to anatomical, hormonal and biomechanical differences.
The orthopedic industry has come a long way with the minimally invasive techniques used to reconstruct ACL injuries. These are no longer career-threatening injuries, but they do require up to a year of not participating in sports activities. Thankfully, while we cannot “stop” ACL injuries, we can greatly minimize the number of injuries. This can be performed by participating in programs that focus on plyometrics, balance and strengthening exercises of the core and leg muscles. These programs are offered locally and require athletes to participate prior to the start of their season and prior to practice. Given the devastating effect ACL injuries can have on athletes’ careers, it seems like a small price to pay.
