ACL Tears in Field Hockey: What Female Athletes Should Know
By Dr. William Sterett, Orthopedic Surgeon at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery
As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist in Vail, and Frisco, Colorado, I work with many female athletes competing at the high school, collegiate, and elite levels. One sport I pay close attention to, especially in the summer and fall is field hockey. Fast-paced and physically demanding, it’s also a sport with one of the highest rates of ACL tears, particularly among women.
If you’re a female athlete or a parent of one, understanding the risks of a field hockey knee injury can help you stay healthy and stay in the game.
Why ACL Tears Are So Common in Field Hockey
An ACL tear in field hockey typically occurs during a sudden stop, pivot, or change in direction, exactly the kind of movement field hockey players make on every possession. Most injuries are non-contact, meaning they don’t happen from a collision, but rather from planting the foot and twisting the knee under load.
Female athletes are especially vulnerable. Research shows that female athlete ACL injuries are up to eight times more likely than those in male athletes playing the same sport. The reasons are complex and include:
Differences in hip and knee alignment
Neuromuscular control and landing mechanics
Hormonal fluctuations affecting ligament laxity
Higher rates of quad dominance over hamstring engagement
Signs You May Have an ACL Tear
If you’ve suffered a field hockey knee injury, here are the red flags that may point to an ACL tear:
A loud “pop” at the time of injury
Immediate swelling or pain inside the knee
Feeling of instability or the knee “giving out”
Inability to continue play or bear weight
Limited range of motion or trouble fully straightening the leg
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, don’t delay evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment planning are critical to recovery.
Prevention Tips for Female Field Hockey Athletes
Fortunately, there are proven ways to reduce the risk of ACL injuries, especially when tailored to the unique biomechanics of female athletes.
1. Neuromuscular Training
Programs that teach proper jumping, landing, and cutting techniques can dramatically lower injury risk. These exercises help reinforce control and reduce knee valgus (inward collapse) during movement.
2. Strengthen the Posterior Chain
Build strength in the glutes, hamstrings, and core, not just the quads. A balanced approach improves knee stability and reduces stress on the ACL.
3. Prioritize Dynamic Warm-Ups
Include balance drills, plyometrics, and mobility work before every practice and game. These prep the muscles and joints for high-intensity movement.
4. Watch for Overuse
Year-round play and back-to-back tournaments leave little time for recovery. Be proactive about rest, cross-training, and listening to your body.
A Field Hockey Athlete’s Experience
“My daughter plays competitive field hockey, and last fall she tore her ACL during a sudden change of direction. We were devastated. Dr. Sterett guided us through surgery and rehab with such care and expertise, she’s back on the field now and stronger than ever.”
— Rachel S., Boulder, CO
Taking the First Step Toward Prevention or Recovery
Whether you’re trying to avoid a female athlete ACL injury or dealing with the aftermath of a recent ACL tear in field hockey, we’re here to help.
At Dr. Sterett’s practice, we specialize in treating high-level athletes with a focus on personalized recovery and return-to-play protocols. If you’ve experienced a field hockey knee injury or want a preventative training plan, schedule a consultation today.
