Patient Information Resources


Orthogate
1089 Spadina Road
Toronto, AL M5N 2M7
Ph: 416-483-2654
Fax: 416-483-2654
christian@orthogate.com






Ankle
Child Orthopedics
Elbow
Foot
General
Hand
Hip
Knee
Shoulder
Spine - Cervical
Spine - Lumbar
Spine - Thoracic
Wrist

View Web RX

« Back

I am a high school soccer player. The athletic trainer for our team insists that we strengthen our hamstring muscles to prevent knee injuries. I think the trainer's going overboard. What's there to worry about?

Certain movements place a large strain on the ligaments of the knee. These include stopping suddenly, or planting the foot on the ground and turning in a different direction. Soccer players are especially prone to injury of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee.

The hamstring muscles behind the thigh help protect the knee. How fast the hamstrings contract in response to sudden movements may help prevent injury to the knee. Quick response is a major principle of injury prevention for any athlete out on the field.

A total body response including the upper body, hip, knee, and ankle is also important for soccer players. A training program should include strength and balance training for these areas.

A new program for the prevention of ACL tears in soccer players has been published. It includes training the mechanisms in the knee and ankle to give these joints a sense of where they are and how they are moving. This training involves the use of a balance training board or disk.

The athlete is required to "balance" the board--or move it without losing balance. This action improves the body's reaction time out on the field. This can help prevent knee injuries. Ask your trainer about this type of program if you aren't already doing it.


References:

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.