Prevention of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury

Abstract

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is a major concern of the young athletes who are engaged in sport activities. Regardless of the number of research studies focusing on prevention of ACL injury, the incident of ACL injury has steadily increased. Problems associated with ACL injury includes financial burden, short- and long-term decreased physical functionality, high recurrence rate, and early development of osteoarthritis. Thus, prevention of ACL injury is critical. The purpose of this evidence-based report is to provide overview of ACL injury, including mechanism of injury, prospective risk factors, factors associated with prospective risk factors, effectiveness and efficacy of injury prevention exercise, and suggestions for future study to help develop effective ACL prevention strategy.