Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Prevention

This chapter discusses the importance of neuromuscular training (NMT) programs consisting of both plyometric and strengthening exercises to maximize proximal muscle strength and decrease anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury rate in at-risk populations. Necessary components of a successful NMT program, such as target populations, frequency of training sessions, compliance, and feedback, are discussed. In order to prevent ACL injuries and future cases of osteoarthritis and total knee replacements, physicians, coaches, parents, and athletes should encourage implementation of ACL injury prevention programs in all athletes who are involved in sports with a high risk of ACL injury.