Risk Factors for ACL Injuries in Female Athletes
Author Information
Author(s): Kamatsuki Yusuke MD, PhD, Qvale Marie Synnøve MD, Steffen Kathrin PhD, Wangensteen Arnlaug PT, PhD, Krosshaug Tron PhD
Primary Institution: Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center, Department of Sports Medicine, Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, Oslo, Norway
Hypothesis
The study investigates the relationship between anatomic factors and the risk for future noncontact ACL injuries.
Conclusion
Increased static knee valgus is associated with a higher risk of noncontact ACL injuries, particularly secondary injuries, while most other anatomic factors showed weak or no association.
Supporting Evidence
- 64 new noncontact ACL injuries were registered during the study.
- Static knee valgus was significantly higher in the new injury group compared to the no new injury group.
- Hyperextension of the knee was identified as a risk factor for secondary ACL injury.
Takeaway
This study looked at what makes female athletes more likely to hurt their knees without being hit. It found that how their knees line up can be important.
Methodology
The study measured various anatomic factors in 870 female athletes and tracked ACL injuries over time.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to the exclusion of players with recent injuries and reliance on self-reported data.
Limitations
Errors in physical examination measurements and variations in follow-up periods among players may affect results.
Participant Demographics
Female elite handball and soccer players aged 14-37 years.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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