Rising ACL Injuries in Teen Girls: Insights from Our Sports Medicine Surgeons
A recent New York Times article highlighted the rising rate of ACL injuries among teenage girls in sports. Our sports medicine surgeons shared their perspective on why these injuries occur and how athletes can help reduce their risk.
“Girls’ knees haven’t changed much since I started practice almost 40 years ago,” said Dr. John Belzer, sports medicine specialist at California Pacific Orthopaedics.
Girls are estimated to be three to six times more likely than boys to tear their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), particularly in sports such as basketball, soccer, lacrosse, and gymnastics.
“Preseason strengthening and conditioning are extremely important,” Dr. Belzer added. “Plyometric training programs have been shown, particularly in NCAA basketball, to significantly reduce ACL injuries, and there are excellent prevention resources available through the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and many physical therapy programs.”
Dr. Keith Chan, sports medicine surgeon at California Pacific Orthopaedics, notes that changes in youth sports culture may also contribute to the rising number of injuries.
“Kids are training harder, playing year round, and focusing on a single sport much earlier,” Dr. Chan said.
Dr. Chan often shares a few simple prevention tips with young athletes and their families:
- Strengthen and stretch the major leg muscles, especially the quadriceps and hamstrings
- Incorporate balance and stabilization training
- Prioritize proper rest, hydration, and appropriate footwear
If a young athlete develops knee pain, instability, or suffers a sports injury, early evaluation by a sports medicine specialist can help guide treatment and a safe return to play.
