Why Are So Many Teen Girls Still Tearing Their A.C.L.s?

NYT Homepage

by Craig Welch

February 26, 2026

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Preventing ACL tears among young athletes is a pressing issue, particularly among teenage girls, who are at a higher risk of sustaining these injuries. Despite knowing that simple exercises can reduce this risk, many young athletes continue to suffer from ligament tears, which often require lengthy recovery periods and can have long-term health consequences. This recurring problem highlights the need for better education and awareness about injury prevention in youth sports. The rise in ACL tear rates among teenage girls is linked to several factors, including anatomical differences, hormonal changes, and training practices that prioritize speed and strength over flexibility and balance. Many young athletes, especially those in competitive sports, lack proper conditioning programs that focus on strengthening the muscles around the knee and improving neuromuscular control. Without these interventions, the risk of tearing the ACL remains high, even for seemingly minor missteps during play. Moreover, there is a gap in knowledge among coaches, parents, and athletes about the importance of prevention strategies

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/26/2026