The Injury Of Knee Injuries

This literature review is to examine just how females are more susceptible to knee injuries, especially having to do with the anterior cruciate ligament. Knee injuries are always prevalent in injuries. Through studies and research, it has been discovered that these types of knee injuries occur more frequently in females, especially an anterior cruciate ligament injury. In order to understand some of the biological reasons as to why the ACL is more commonly injured in females, one must take an in-depth look at the knee anatomy.

The knee joint is the largest joint in the body, along with one of the most easily injured. The four main components of the knee are the bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. The three bones that make up the knee joint are the femur, tibia, and patella. The two types of cartilage are the meniscus and the articular cartilage. The articular cartilage covers the ends of the femur and tibia, along with the back of the patella. This type of cartilage helps the knee glide smoothly across all the bones as you bend or straighten your leg. The meniscus is made of two pieces. One is shaped like a “C”. The other piece is shaped like an “O.” These two pieces act as shock absorbers between the femur and tibia. The meniscus is tough and made to help cushion and keep the joint stable. Another major part of the knee joint anatomy is the ligaments. Ligaments are how bones are connected to other bones. There are four main ligaments found in the knee. The four ligaments are divided into two types called the collateral and cruciate ligaments. The collateral ligaments are found on the inside and outside of the knee. The medial collateral ligament, or MCL, is found on the inside. The lateral collateral ligament, or LCL, is f...

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...males. When a patellar tendon graft was used, the success rates between males and females were about the same. If a female athlete tears their ACL while they still plan to return to play, it is harder for them to return to play. The recovery time for a male is five to six months post-surgery. For a female, recovery time from an ACL tear is six to seven months.

So it has been concluded and agreed upon that females are at much more of risk for knee injuries, especially that of an anterior cruciate ligament injury. So the question is, can we prevent this from happening and how? I would have to say that in my opinion, ACL injuries cannot be stopped whether male or female. Many of the factors that contribute to biological reasons that cannot be helped. There are some preventative measures that can be taken. Although there is no universally accepted ACL prevention program.