A review of electromyographic activation levels, timing differences, and increased anterior cruciate ligament injury incidence in female athletes.
Deficits in dynamic neuromuscular control of the knee may contribute to the higher incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in female athletes. There is evidence that neuromuscular training alters muscle firing patterns, as it decreases landing forces, improves balance, and reduces ACL injury incidence in female athletes. The purpose of this review is to summarise the evidence for altered muscular activation and timing relative to ACL injury risk in female athletes.
Hewett
T E
TE
Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Sports Medicine Biodynamics Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA. tim.hewett@cchmc.org
Zazulak
B T
BT
Myer
G D
GD
Ford
K R
KR
D000070598:Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries; D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000517:prevention & control*; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D004576:Electromyography / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D007718:Knee Injuries / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008297:Male; D009469:Neuromuscular Junction / Q000502:physiology; D010806:Physical Education and Training; D012307:Risk Factors