EXCEL’s AC inJury prevention Program

In response to the increase in ACL injuries in female athletes, EXCEL has developed the ACL Injury Prevention Program. Although we cannot change human anatomy, we can affect the way an athlete moves and functions. Prevention Programs have been successful in decreasing the occurrence of ACL injuries by 60-90%.1-6 The primary focus of these programs have been on altering movement patterns, improving faulty biomechanics, and strengthening weak muscles.

Components of a successful program to prevent ACL injury include plyometrics, alteration of biomechanics, lower extremity and core strengthening, balance training and improvements in flexibility. However, the most important aspect of the program is the careful evaluation of technique and instruction on proper form. EXCEL’s ACL Injury Prevention Program incorporates all of these components under the supervision and guidance by our team of experienced physical therapists. Upon completion of the program, athletes will gain a clear understanding of injury avoidance strategies which can ultimately lower their risk of ACL injury.

WHAT IS THE ACL?
The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is one of the four major knee ligaments that are critical to the stability of the knee joint. Patients who tear their ACL often have an unstable knee joint which prevents them from participating in sports and can result in additional damage to other areas within the knee. 80% of ACL tears occur through non-contact mechanisms such as pivoting, cutting and decelerating during landing. 1