ACL Tears for Women - Why Female Soccer Players Are 6 Times More Likely to Become Injured

As the Women’s World Cup heats up, FOX46 Charlotte asked OrthoCarolina’s Margaret Lynch, PA-C, to join them on air to talk about ACL injuries. Here are a few things we learned from Margaret:

YOUNG WOMEN ARE UP TO SIX TIMES MORE LIKELY TO HAVE AN ACL TEAR

There are anatomical differences, like wider hips, that make women age 14-20 more likely to see ACL tears, Margaret says.

As young athletes’ joints are developing stability and coordination, they are playing high levels of competitive soccer. Jumping mechanics, landing mechanics and muscle imbalances can all play a role.

YOU’VE HEARD OF REHAB BUT WHAT ABOUT PREHAB?

Prehab focuses on the idea of working to prevent an injury before it happens. For ACL tears, strength training focusing on the core and hips can help prevent injury.

WATCH FOR THE WARNING SIGNS

Any time an athlete suffers a twisting, non-contact or contact injury that results in swelling they should be seen.

Often, these athletes are still mobile so the seriousness of the injury may be difficult to determine yourself. An orthopedic specialist will look at X-rays and compare joints side-by-side because our bodies are made symmetrically. Evaluations will also allow the orthopedist to determine the joint’s level of stability.

WHAT’S NEXT:

- Meet a patient who went from two ACL tears to West Point. 
- Learn more about Margaret Lynch, PA-C, our Sports Medicine Center or find an OrthoCarolina location near you.

- Injuries, especially sports injuries, can happen after hours. Find your closest OrthoCarolina Urgent Care so you're never left waiting until Monday morning.