Cruciate tears in girls

A recent study of adolescent girls in America found they were five times more likely to sustain cruciate tears when engaged in non contact sport, eg volleyball, football. Whilst the reason for this is now the subject of research, anecdotally I have found a greater occurrence in women who are naturally more flexible with greater laxity in their joints. This would suggest that there is a discrete group who would benefit from specific exercises both to increase muscle strength and importantly coordination. If your daughter is a natural gymnast or ballet dancer, then it might be a good idea to get a physio to check out her matural flexibility before she enrols for the rugby team at uni!