Understanding & Preventing ACL Injuries
 
ACL Injuries Main Page
anatomy of the knee
Movement of the Knee
Function of the ACL & PCL
ACL Exercise Programs
ACL Injury Summary
Screening

Research as shown consistent data regarding the biomechanical risk factors that tend to lead to ACL injuries. Probably the best predictor of an ACL injury can be found during an overhead squat assessment. Proper mechanics that decrease stress on the ACL include:

  • Flexion at the knees and hips (knees bend to at least 45 degrees)
  • Alignment of the knees - preventing knee valgus movement (knee bowing inward – this is critical!)
  • Landing on the ball of the feet
  • Squaring the knees over the toes (knees aligned vertically between big toe and little toe)
  • Aligning the chest over the knees
  • Feet aligned with each other (avoiding one foot in front of the other)
  • Soft and quiet landings
Print Screening Check List

Many ACL injuries occur when landing from a jump or performing another type of deceleration movement like cutting or pivoting. Injuries often occur when the knee joint is close to fully extended (straight), when the knee bows inward (a valgus motion), or when the foot is flat and/or externally rotated (pointing outward) [3,7,10]. Screening procedures can be as simple as critiquing an athletes body mechanics while performing a squat or single leg balance activity. Athletes that demonstrate a deficiency in these types of movements can be considered at greater risk for an ACL injury.

       
Last updated: April 19, 2007
Paradise Valley Community College- URL-http://www.pvc.maricopa.edu/fitness/ACL_Screening
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