Over 200,000 people sustain anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries every year, and ACL reconstructions are some of the most common procedures implemented in the United States. More young individuals than ever are afflicted with such injuries, and young athletes who suffer from ACL injuries may experience fear, perceived alienation from their fellow athletes, depression, and even lower grades. Worse than the more immediate results are the potential long-term effects, such as the risk of developing osteoarthritis within 10 to 15 years after sustaining an ACL injury.
Fortunately, such injuries may be prevented when young people are educated on proper movement techniques. Educational programs are available …show more content…
The former thought on this matter was that strengthening the hamstrings and the quadriceps resulted in a decrease in ACL injuries. More recent research has shown that in addition to strengthening the hamstrings and quadriceps, young athletes may need to focus on retraining in relation to movement patterns, as well. Along with learning how to move correctly, young athletes also need to be taught how to activate the muscles properly when they are engaged in sports or other physical activities.
Learning to Move Properly and Strengthening the Hip Muscles
A physical therapist may assess the needs of a young athlete to determine which areas will require the most training (or retraining). Movement training typically involves learning how to move in a new way. The complexities of movement training can generally be divided into simpler parts that are easier to understand. Every step of a movement training program may increase in complexity without overwhelming the participant.
Strengthening the hip muscles may be another key factor in ACL injury prevention. Individuals can learn to perform targeted exercises that activate the hip muscles. Once a person knows how to activate the hip muscles, then the primary focus may be placed on strengthening