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ACL injuries more prone to occur in women

Female athletes tear their anterior cruciate ligaments at an alarmingly higher rate in certain sports, including basketball and soccer. Participation in sports by girls has increased dramatically, and that impacts the number of injuries. The typical way it happens is a rapid, awkward stop and anticipation of lateral movements. Mercy Medical Center orthopedic surgeon Dr. Mark Slabaugh, said anatomy and hormones also play a role, and that a good prevention program can help avoid ACL tears.