Why Women are More Likely to Tear Their ACL - And How Dash Physiotherapy Can Help
- Natalie Pearce
- May 23
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 3
ACL injuries are one of the more serious knee injuries in sport - and often can happen seemingly out of the blue and even without contact from another player. Studies have shown women are up to 8x more likely to rupture their ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) than men in sports such as soccer and basketball.
At Dash Physiotherapy, we see lots of active women and teenagers in rehabilitation from ACL reconstruction surgeries due to a sporting injury. Understanding why these injuries occur more frequently in female athletes can be the first step towards reducing the incidence of these injuries and keeping women on the field and playing sport.
Key Reasons Why Women Are More Prone to ACL Injuries
1. Anatomical Differences
Women often naturally have a wider pelvis, which can change the angle between the hips and the knees. A change in this angle, particularly one that places the knees inwards of the hips - can create extra pressure onto the ligaments of the knee required to stabilise the joint. This pressure only increases in movements such as jumping, landing and changing direction.
In addition to this, generally women have a smaller notch where the ACL sits, leaving the ACL more exposed and vulnerable to injury.
What can be done about this?
Specific strength training can be implmented to strengthen the glutes which ultimately can reduce that angle and bring the knees back in line with the hips during sporting activities
2. Hormonal Fluctuations
Women have significantly higher levels of estrogen than men. It has been hypothesised that higher levels of Estrogen negatively affect the structure and “looseness” of ligaments such as the ACL. So therefore rupture is potentially at a higher risk when this hormone peaks- the pre-ovulation period or roughly day 10-14 of a typical 28 day cycle.
What can be done about this?
Training programs can be altered around this time to account for these changes in cycle as well as completing extra neuro-muscular training to attempt to counter the effects of hormone fluctuations.
3. Movement Mechanics and Muscle Imbalances
Women often demonstrate different movement patterns from men during sports:
Landing from jumps with knees in a more inward position
Relying more on the quadriceps and less on the hamstrings for knee stability
Reduced hip and core control
These factors can place additional stress on the ACL and surrounding structures.
What can be done about this?
These movement patterns can be addressed at Dash Physiotherapy with a personalised running and jumping assessment and targeted exercise programs.
How Dash Physiotherapy in North Melbourne Can Help Prevent ACL Injuries
While some ACL injury risk factors are biological, many are modifiable. At Dash Physiotherapy, we work with women of all ages and fitness levels to reduce injury risk and improve performance.
We offer individualised ACL injury prevention programs that include:
Neuromuscular training
Strength and conditioning, focusing on hamstrings, glutes, and core
Plyometric and agility drills
Balance and stability training
Education on safe landing and cutting techniques
Whether you’re a competitive athlete or just staying active, our tailored physio programs can make a significant difference in reducing your risk of ACL injury.
Book a Consultation Today
If you’re an active woman looking to reduce your risk of ACL injury—or recovering from one—we’re here to help.
Book an assessment with our experienced physiotherapist at Dash Physiotherapy North Melbourne and take the first step towards healthier knees and better performance.
👉 Contact us today to book your appointment.
Phone: +61 424929306
Book Online: www.dashphysiotherapy.com.au
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