Soccer is one of the fast growing sports for the female athlete. FIFA records show an amazing rise in woman participation. In preparation for our project with the team of ASA in Tel Aviv, results of the screening coming soon, we found many interesting aspects regarding female soccer and injury prevalence and prevention.
ACL, anterior cruciate ligament, injuries are more common for female athletes then male athletes. The ACL is an import knee stabilizer. Unlike other ligaments in the body most of the ACL injuries are non contact in nature.
The reasons behind the high rate of ACL injuries are not clear, but research shows that anatomical alignment differences between the male and female hip, knee and ankle could play a role. For example women have a wider pelvis then man. This difference can has an effect on the knee joint and the ligaments stabilizing the joint. Especially the anterior medial direction is vulnerable.
Neuromuscular factors also play a big role. Female soccer players perform running and cutting maneuvers with more extension in their knees. Also are females more quads dominant then men.
Finally, the menstrual cycle could be an explanation for ACL injuries among female soccer players. Results of a study in Handball teams suggest an increased risk of ACL injuries during the week before or after the start of the menstrual cycle. Have a good week! Mischa
Literature:
FIFA: Health and fitness for the female football player, a guide for players and coaches.
Murphy, Connoly, Beynnon. Risk factors for lower extremity injury: a review of the literature. British J Sports Med 2003; 37: 13-29.
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