ACL Injuries More Common Among Female Athletes

ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) tears are devastating injuries to athletes involved in sports ranging from football to soccer.  The ACL is critical for knee stability during “cutting” activities such as zig-zag cutting drills.  ACL injuries receive significant media attention because of the high profile athletes that have suffered ACL tears, from Adrian Peterson to Skylar Diggins. The number of ACL injuries has increased recently because of more participation by female athletes.  Women have a much higher risk of ACL injuries compared to their male counterparts, due in large part to anatomical, hormonal, and biomechanical differences.   

The orthopedic industry has come a long way with the minimally invasive techniques used to reconstruct damage from ACL injuries.  These are no longer career threatening injuries, but they do require up to a year of not participating in sports activities. Thankfully, while we cannot “stop” ACL injuries, we can greatly minimize the number of injuries.  This can be performed by participating in programs that focus on plyometrics, balance, and strengthening exercises of the core and leg muscles.  These programs are offered locally and require athletes to participate prior to the start of their season and prior to practice.  Given the devastating effect ACL injuries can have on athletes’ careers, it seems like a small price to pay. 

Tidewater Orthopaedics

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Nicholas K. Sablan, MD: Nicholas K. Sablan, MD, FAAOS Sports Medicine Dr. Nick Sablan joined Tidewater Ortho in the fall of 2011 having completed his residency in orthopaedic surgery at the University of Connecticut, and a fellowship in orthopaedic sports medicine in the Kerlan Jobe clinic in Los Angeles. In Los Angeles, Dr. Sablan served as assistant team physician to the Lakers, LA Kings, Anaheim Ducks, Los Angeles Dodgers and PGA Tour as well as college and high school sports teams. He joined Tidewater Ortho because he shares their same commitment to providing excellent subspecialty care.Dr. Sablan brings his young family, his wife and 3 children, from California to a quieter area that has young families and good weather. His interests include plenty of family time, basketball and tennis.