How Do You Recognize And Treat Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries In Youth Soccer?
Although soccer has one of the lowest injury rates of any youth sport, sports and injuries, unfortunately, go hand in hand. With a little knowledge of safety and prevention, you can help your child reduce the likelihood of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. Understand the anatomy. The ACL is a ligament that provides stability to the knee. Watch for instability of the knee, such as buckling while running or turning. This is a telltale sign of ACL damage. An ACL injury can be very serious. The ACL can usually be reconstructed with the use of arthroscopic surgery. Check out alternate treatment to surgery. Children under 15 are generally not candidates for arthroscopic surgery because their bones are still growing. Ask about bracing and physical therapy. These are general recommendations for youth ACL injuries. Make sure to keep a medical kit on the sideline.
