: Enhancing Athlete Safety The ACL, or anterior cruciate ligament, extends from the lateral femoral condyle to the anterior medial aspect of the tibia.
: Enhancing Athlete Safety The ACL, or anterior cruciate ligament, extends from the lateral femoral condyle to the anterior medial aspect of the tibia. The bands of the ACL act as a biomechanical restraint for rotation and limits anterior translation of the tibia on the femur. It assists with knee stability during running, jumping, cutting or pivoting.
There are both structural features and dynamic biomechanics that have been shown to increase risk of injury to the ACL. The structural features are only modifiable via surgery. These include intercondylar notch size, narrow intercondylar notch, tibial slope and the integrity of the menisci.
The dynamic and modifiable biomechanics that stress the ACL are hyperextension, excessive valgus and excessive abduction. Poor muscular control results in improper knee alignment and increased translation or rotary shear forces. Robert Griffin III at the NFL combine (courtesy of stack.com) It is estimated that 250,000-400,000 ACL injuries occur in the United States each year and roughly half of them undergo ACL reconstruction (2,3).
Despite being studied extensively and having many methods of repair, up to 80% of individuals undergoing reconstruction develop knee osteoarthritis. Individuals undergoing reconstructions have a 20-30 percent risk of injuring the ACL of the same knee or the opposite knee. Athletes suffering a knee injury prior to a division 1 career have been shown to have an eightfold risk of suffering an additional knee injury and spend 50% more time on the disabled list.
Additionally, it can be very difficult for athletes psychologically to recover from ACL injuries. Because of the nature of ACL injuries, time lost and financial burden, there have been attempts to make programs for ACL prevention. This started more than two decades ago with the training programs attempting to influence neuromuscular system with programs that include plyometrics, strengthening, technique and balance exercises.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to acl prevention programs: can we do more to prevent this catastrophic injury?, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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