The relationship between ACL injuries and physical fitness in young competitive ski racers: a 10-year longitudinal study. Issue 15 (11th September 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Raschner, Christian; Platzer, Hans-Peter; Patterson, Carson; Werner, Inge; Huber, Reinhard; Hildebrandt, Carolin
• Is Part Of: British journal of sports medicine. Volume 46:Issue 15(2012)
• Page Start: 1065
• Page End: 1071
• Publication Date: 2012-09-11
• Subjects: Ski injuries -- ACL -- Adolescents -- Fitness testing; Sports medicine -- Periodicals; 617.1027
• DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2012-091050
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-3674

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Epidemiological studies have shown a high incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries among competitive alpine skiers. Little is known regarding modifiable risk factors in young skiers. There are still uncertainties in gender-related risk factors. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between ACL injuries and internal risk factors. Methods: Retrospective data analyses were performed based on a group of 175 female and 195 male alpine ski racers between the ages of 14 and 19 years. The athletes underwent physical testing annually from 1996 to 2006. Z score transformations normalised the age groups. Multivariate binary logistic regressions were calculated for men and women separately to detect significant predictors of ACL ruptures. t Tests were computed to reveal the differences in test scores between injured and non-injured athletes. Results: A total of 57 (15%) ACL injuries occurred. The female−male risk ratio (RR) was higher in females (2.3, 95% CI 1.3 to 4.2). Z scores for relative leg force, ratio of absolute core flexion to extension force, relative core strength and reactive strength index were predictive variables for men. Z scores of all of these predictive variables except relative leg force were higher in the non-injured group. The ratios of absolute flexion to extension force and absolute core strength were predictive covariates for women. Z scores for absolute core strength were higher in the non-injured group. Conclusions: The risk of ACL injury was greater in female athletes. The findings suggest that core strength is a predominant critical factor for ACL injuries in young ski racers.