| TEENS,
SPORTS AND INJURIES
As female athletes approach adolescence, growth changes cause
them to have less control of their knee joints, placing them
at greater risk for non-contact injuries to the anterior cruciate
ligament (ACL), according to recent studies.
Beginning about age 12, female athletes has 4-8 times more
ACL injuries than males in sports such as: Soccer, Basketball
and Volleyball. Girls and boys are similar in control of the
knee prior to puberty-the difference becomes apparent as their
bodies mature.
Studies indicate three main differences between the genders
that increase risk factors in females.
Anatomical differences-Women's pelvises are
wider and the angle at which the femur meets the tibia creates
excess stress on the knee. It may be the anatomical differences
that affect the center of gravity causing biomechanics to
differ in men and women. Females, for example, run, jump (land)
and pivot in a more upright position adding stress to the
knee joint.
Hormonal differences-Female hormones relax
muscles and ligaments of the joints causing increased joint
mobility and adding to the risk for injury in women. Testosterone
in males affects muscle development and strength which gives
male athletes an edge on strength of hamstrings and quadriceps.
Neuromuscular differences-Women do not have
the same neuromuscular synchronization as males, which increases
the risk for injury in female athletes when pivoting or making
directional shifts Instead of the muscles taking the brunt
of the movement, the ligaments and joints experience the added
stress.
Girls who intend to pursue the kinds of sports that place
them at risk for ACL injuries should look for programs specific
to the needs of the female athlete. A program that emphasizes
form, flexibility and plyometric strength of the thigh and
leg muscles may decrease the female vulnerability to ACL injury.
Ask your family doctor to find a specialist such as physical
therapist or athletic trainer who understands the specific
needs of the female athlete and is familiar with progressive
jump-training for women.
References: Yale New Haven Hospital, HealthLINK Women's
Health American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons
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