Monday, 16 April 2012

Are women at risk too for ACL injuries?

Nowadays a lot of research is being done on women and their sports related fitness. This is also because each year there are more women athletes who are enrolling for sports. The physiology of a woman is certainly different and also there are several factors related to hormones that greatly affect coordination and hence certain injuries are related only to women. The ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) is one of the common injuries faced by women during sports. A common knee injury, it can happen due to sudden movement during a jump or a sudden stop which can influence the tissue. The ACL is highly important for balancing the instant change in position and hence it is susceptible for damage.

How estrogen can affect ACL

The estrogen level in a woman can reveal her activity level. At times when estrogen is high, ladies often are more lax and hence their reflexes are affected. On the contrary, a low estrogen level increases their active nature and hence they balance better. This affects the ACL and knee coordination.  The manhattan spine and sports medicine is an effective way to counter such problems. The pain and swelling is high and hence the athlete is told to stay away from any activity for a while.
Understanding ACL injury

Usually patients talk about a ‘pop’ heard when the injury first happens. Charlotte was a good athlete and she mentions, “There was a pop sound and I felt as if my knee has moved a bit. I found it strange and soon the pain started as I tried to walk.” A proper examination of the area will reveal the extent of injury. The doctors usually examine the tibia to find how much injury the ACL has incurred. There can be partial or total injury. Ligaments usually heal with time and surgery is suggested only when the case is severe.

Training for better coordination

A good training program is the best way out to strengthen the muscles of the thigh and ankle. A comprehensive training program for women athletes and finding a new way to handle bending or a sudden moment is important during the sports activity. The joints too need to be handled well as they are the prime area used as reflexes. It is good if a study is done to peculiarly study the mannerisms of women athletes while dealing with a fall or landing. The study must include the physical part of women athletes and the effect of estrogen to avoid ACL injuries.

Rehabilitation

Sports medicine New York City helps in faster recovery and is recommended.  An important need is to find novel ways to recover after the injury. As the knee swelling is noticeable and painful, rest is also followed by physiotherapy which has to be followed consistently.