Biomechanical studies on ACL injury risk factor during cutting; utilizing the point cluster technique

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to clarify gender specific differences in strategies adopted by athletes during a cutting maneuver, based on results of recent research. The experimental task selected for detection of the risk of an injury to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during a cutting maneuver should also involve trunk control. An example of such a task is shuttle run cutting. Trunk control during this task can then be analyzed. Important factors for understanding the strategy adopted by female athletes during a cutting maneuver involve gender differences in trunk and knee kinematics and kinetics, and the athlete’s reaction to instruction. Both posture and reaction to instruction in female athletes during the cutting maneuver differ from those of their male counterparts. To decrease the risk of ACL injury, trunk position during the cutting task should be screened for forward and lateral inclination. A forward inclination of the trunk in female athletes can be achieved by improving hip and trunk muscle activity.