Addressing the Unique Orthopaedic Needs of Female Athletes

Female athletes face unique orthopaedic challenges due to differences in anatomy, hormones, and biomechanics. Understanding these factors is essential for preventing injuries and optimizing performance. Here’s a brief overview of the key orthopaedic concerns for female athletes and how they can be addressed.

1. Higher Risk of Knee Injuries

Women are more prone to ACL injuries due to a wider pelvis and greater Q-angle, which places extra stress on the knees. Hormonal fluctuations can also increase ligament laxity.

Prevention: Focus on neuromuscular training, strength exercises (especially for the quadriceps and hamstrings), and proper landing mechanics.

2. Bone Health and Stress Fractures

Female athletes are at increased risk of stress fractures, especially those with low body weight or irregular menstrual cycles. Hormonal imbalances, like those seen in Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S), can weaken bones.

Prevention: Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, engage in weight-bearing exercises, and monitor bone density for high-risk athletes.

3. Pelvic Floor Health

Sports involving high impact can lead to pelvic floor dysfunction, including urinary incontinence and pelvic pain, exacerbated by pregnancy or hormonal changes.

Prevention: Strengthen pelvic floor muscles with exercises like Kegels to improve core stability and prevent incontinence.

4. Tendon and Ligament Health

Oestrogen can increase tendon laxity, making female athletes more vulnerable to tendinitis and ligament injuries, especially in sports with repetitive motions.

Prevention: Incorporate strength training, tendon-loading exercises, and flexibility routines to improve tendon resilience.

5. Hormonal Influences on Performance

Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle affect performance. The follicular phase (before ovulation) is often linked to better strength, while the luteal phase (after ovulation) can cause joint instability and fatigue.

Adjustment: Tailor training intensity to the menstrual cycle, focusing on more intense training during the follicular phase and lighter sessions during the luteal phase.

6. Footwear and Equipment

Women may have different foot structures, requiring properly fitted footwear to avoid issues like plantar fasciitis. Supportive sports bras and protective gear are also essential for preventing injury.

7. Mental Health and Stress Management

Female athletes may experience higher levels of anxiety and depression, which can impact both physical health and recovery.

Support: Integrate stress management techniques and mental health support to help athletes manage pressure and maintain peak performance.

Conclusion

Female athletes require a specialized approach to address their unique orthopaedic needs, from knee injuries and bone health to pelvic floor function and the effects of hormonal cycles. A tailored, holistic approach to training, injury prevention, and overall well-being ensures that female athletes can perform at their best while minimizing the risk of injury.

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