Katie Vadasdi MD

Katie Vadasdi, MD, will address the ACL Injuries in Women at the 6th Annual ONSF Medical Education Conference on Saturday, November 8th. Orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, radiologists, sports medicine specialists, physiatrists and physical therapists will present topics related to treatment of musculoskeletal issues unique to females. 

“The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) functions to stabilize the knee and prevents the tibia from moving forward on the femur providing rotational stability.

There has been a notable increase in ACL injuries and over sport participation in the past 20 years. There has also been an increase in females participating in higher risk sports. The majority of ACL injuries occur between the ages 16-45 years old. 70% of ACL injuries occur from a non-contact event. In soccer, basketball and volleyball, the rate of non-contact ACL injury is 2.4-9.5 times higher in women than men. Women tend to have a smaller ACL, smaller femoral notch where the ACL sits, more genu valgus (knock-knee), and added joint laxity which places women at higher risk of ACL rupture. Women also tend to be more upright when landing or lunging which increases the load on the ACL, and increases the risk of rupturing.

ACL injuries commonly occur in a setting of deceleration with hyperextension and valgus or knock-kneed position. Patients will often describe a snap or ‘pop” and the giving way of the knee.

Most athletes with a complete or high-grade ACL rupture or an ACL tear will require surgical reconstruction with a graft.

Neuromuscular training improves strength, agility and proprioception which reduces the risk of ACL injuries.”

The 6^th Annual ONSF Medical Education Conference will focus on treatment of musculoskeletal issues unique to females. Keynote speaker Joan Lunden, renowned author, journalist and TV host, will share her perspectives on women’s health.