Yale University reports that female athletes face a significantly higher risk, ranging from two to eight times more, of experiencing an ACL tear.¹ The ACL, or anterior cruciate ligament, extends from the femur to the tibia, crucial for knee stability. These injuries often occur due to sudden changes in direction, improper landing after a jump, or collisions with other athletes.
Factors that make women more susceptible to ACL injuries include:
Anatomical Differences: Men and women are anatomically created differently. Men naturally have more muscle mass than women, providing better bones, ligaments, and tendon stability. Another difference is the notch located in the femur where the ACL attaches. In women, this notch is much smaller, which is believed to be one of the factors that make women more prone to ACL injuries.
Hormonal factors: Higher levels of estrogen cause tendons and ligaments to have more laxity. During a woman’s cycle when estrogen is high, they are more susceptible to ligament injuries. Women also have less testosterone than men, a key component of increasing muscle density.
Athletic technique differences: Women naturally tend to land harder, and more stiff-legged when landing a jump. Working on proper technique is something that should be emphasized as part of their training regimen.
Female athletes face a significantly increased risk, ranging from two to eight times more, of experiencing ACL tears. Empowering female health through informed strategies and proactive injury prevention initiatives can help foster wellness in the sports community.
