There’s a Connection Between ACL Injuries and the Menstrual Cycle
January 2nd, 2006
Women are 4x more likely to sustain an ACL injury than men. Sports such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, tennis, etc… where there is a lot of cutting, sudden stopping, pivoting, straight knee landing and the like put women in greater jeopardy of tearing an ACL.
The surfaces we play on in addition to the fact that our hips are wider (which puts more pressure on the ACL) adds to the problem. Ladies, if that weren’t enough, during ovulation women are 3x MORE likely to sustain an ACL injury. Although experts have yet to agree on this subject as to why this happens, it is important for women to train properly to prevent injuries.
Here are 3 things to do:
- Do unilateral (one leg) exercises to balance both sides of your body. (i.e. one legged squats, leg curls, etc.)
- Practice safer jumping and landing techniques. To absorb some of the shock when you land be sure to bend your knees rather than landing straight legged.
- Strengthen your hamstrings (back of the thigh) and quads (front of the thigh.) These muscles work together to protect the knee while changing direction quickly.
About the Author:
Priscilla Shaw is the official blogger for Girl Turf and owner of Pink Sneakers.
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ACL injuries
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