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Female knee injuries have recently received significant publicity
due to the Women's Basketball NCAA tournament. University of Connecticut's
star forward, Shea Ralph, tore her ACL for the third time this past
season. This has increased awareness of knee injuries among female
athletes. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, in addition is also a common
injury that affects female athletes. The Women's Sports Medicine
Center recognizes that female athletes are at a greater risk
than males for these injuries. We are doing our part to prevent
these injuries through education.
ACL
Injuries
Females are predisposed to knee injuries due to multiple factors.
Anatomical differences include larger pelvis width, smaller and
narrower intercondylar notch, greater knee valgus alignment, and
increased ligamentous laxity. Hormonal differences may play a role
due to fluctuation throughout the menstrual cycle. Biomechanic factors
that affect females and increase their risk of an ACL tear include
greater strength of the quadriceps muscles than the hamstrings,
and landing and pivoting with a straighter knee. Dynamic neuromuscular
training programs that include plyometrics, stretching, and strength
training can often correct the athletes biomechanical limitations.
"Our program is designed
to educate females about why this condition affects them, and what
they can do to limit recurrences."
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Biomechanical improvement may result in improved athletic performance
and reduction of ACL injury. Our education programs focus on all
of these components and are designed to prevent ACL injuries.
Patellofemoral
Pain Syndrome
PPS is one of the most common complaints among female athletes.
On average, Dr. Teri McCambridge, Director of The Women's Sports
Medicine Center, sees five new patients a day with this diagnosis.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is a recurring condition that can be
debilitating if stretching and quadriceps strength is not maintained.
Our education program is designed to teach females about why this
condition affects them, and what they can do to limit recurrences.
For more information regarding any of our programs, please call
The Women's Sports Medicine Center at Orthopaedic Associates
at 410.337.5311.
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