As Dr. William Sterett, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery in the athletic community of Vail, Colorado, I’ve worked closely with countless female athletes. One question that’s come up more frequently in recent years is this: Does my menstrual cycle affect my risk of tearing my ACL?

The short answer is yes—there is growing evidence that hormone fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle can influence ligament laxity and neuromuscular control, which in turn may increase the risk of ACL injury during specific phases.

ACL tears are one of the most common injuries in soccer. In fact, studies have shown that female soccer players are 4-5 times more likely to suffer an ACL tear than their male counterparts.

Learn why females have a higher risk of ACL injuries, along with recommended prevention strategies by Dr. Sterett, the leading expert in female ACL reconstruction.

These top female athletes bounced back from injury to reach great heights. You can, too!

Studies have indicated that women tend to land with different mechanics than their male counterparts. This has proven to be a factor in the high rate of ACL tears among our female athletes.

Listen to Dr. Sterett on the VSO podcast as he gives some behind the scenes info on being a world cup ski doc. Dr. Sterett also talks knee injuries to female athletes and what you can do to prevent injury during this informative chat!

It's not just the ladies at the top of the podium who face pressure. Many female athletes are becoming more susceptible to this female athlete's triad.

Are you loose-jointed? Dr. Sterett talks about why you have a 5x greater risk of suffering an ACL tear.