Orthopaedic Issues for Active Athletic Women

Orthopaedic Issues for Active Athletic Women

Women have proved their true potential in every field, breaking barriers and have set an example for coming generations and there’s no doubt about it. Women achieving accolades is defining their capabilities, but keeping a close eye on their health is crucial, especially for those highly active in the world of sports. In the long run, comes unique challenges, particularly in the realm of orthopaedics. From weekend warriors to professional athletes, women face a myriad of orthopaedic issues that demand attention, understanding, and proactive management. Let’s take a look at each one of them.
Understanding Orthopaedic Issues in Female Athletes
Women have made significant strides in the world of athletics, but it's essential to recognize that their bodies have unique physiological differences compared to their male counterparts. These differences can predispose them to certain orthopaedic issues, such as:

ACL Injuries
Women have unique healthcare needs, especially when it comes to sports injuries. Take ACL tears, for instance. They're more common in women than men because of differences in knee joint structure. Women's knees tend to have more looseness and range of motion, and less muscle mass around the knee, making them more prone to instability and ligament tears.
Treatment usually involves physical therapy, anti-inflammatory meds, and sometimes surgery. Factors like age and activity level influence the treatment decision. Older women or those with lower activity levels might do well with just physical therapy. But for active women involved in sports or knee-straining activities like dancing, surgery might be the best option to restore function and keep them moving.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is knee pain around or under the kneecap. It's a common cause of knee pain in female athletes. PFPS happens when there are imbalances in the forces controlling how the kneecap moves when you bend and straighten your knee. Symptoms include pain behind or around the kneecap, especially when running, squatting, or going up and down stairs. PFPS is more common in females compared to males.
You can usually treat PFPS at home with the RICE method. Firstly, ample rest would be the first thing to avoid activity that causes pain. Then, apply ice to your knee for about 20 minutes every three to four hours, making sure to wrap the ice pack in a towel or cloth to protect your skin. Additionally, use a compression bandage or wrap around your knee to reduce swelling, following instructions from your healthcare provider. Finally, elevate your knee above the level of your heart by propping it up with pillows, blankets, or cushions. These simple steps can help alleviate PFPS symptoms and promote healing.

Stress Fractures
Female athletes, especially those involved in activities involving repetitive impact, are at a heightened risk of stress fractures, often occurring in weight-bearing bones like the tibia and metatarsals. Factors such as low bone density, hormonal imbalances, and inadequate nutrition can further increase this risk. To prevent stress fractures, it's crucial to focus on proper nutrition, incorporate strength training to enhance bone density, and gradually ramp up training intensity. By addressing these factors, athletes can reduce their susceptibility to stress fractures and maintain optimal bone health for continued performance and well-being.
By understanding the unique physiological factors at play, implementing preventive measures, and adopting a proactive approach to health and well-being, women can take control of their health. Because resilience is not just about overcoming obstacles; it's about growing despite them.

 Authored By Dr Bharani  Kumar Dayanandam,MBBS,Orthopedic Surgeon