What in the World Why do female footballers get more ACL injuries?
Jun 27, 2025
The podcast dives into the alarming rates of ACL injuries among female footballers, highlighting the impact of increased participation in the sport. It features Manchester United player Gabby George sharing her emotional journey with two injuries. Expert James Brouner discusses risk factors and research efforts aimed at injury prevention. Solutions like better boot design and player monitoring are explored, revealing the challenges and advancements in rehabilitation. A compelling mix of personal stories and data sheds light on a pressing issue in women’s sports.
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Female Anatomy Impacts ACL Risk
- Female athletes' wider pelvis causes a knocked knee, increasing knee joint load and injury risk.
- Thinner ACL ligaments and landing posture also contribute to higher injury likelihood in women.
More Play Equals More Risks
- Increased international breaks mean women footballers play more matches, raising injury risk.
- Playing continents apart (e.g., UK to Australia) adds fatigue, increasing injury likelihood.
Gear Not Suited for Women
- Football boots are designed for male European feet, not women’s smaller, high-arched feet.
- Playing on poorer-quality pitches and using balls not tailored for women also increases injury risks.