| Abstract [eng] |
1. Introduction: Anterior cruciate ligament tears are among the most common sports injuries, with long-term consequences for athletes' physical condition and quality of life. Research indicates that women experience this injury more frequently than men. The causes of anterior cruciate ligament injuries may be linked to anatomical, physiological, and social factors that influence their prevalence and outcomes. 2. Aim: To evaluate the prevalence of anterior cruciate ligament injuries in male and female populations and determine the factors influencing the frequency of these injuries. 3. Objectives: • To evaluate the epidemiology of anterior cruciate ligament injuries and the differences in incidence between males and females. • To examine the anatomy of the anterior cruciate ligament, the mechanisms of ligament rupture, and the anatomical, physiological, social, biomechanical, and neuromuscular factors contributing to the pathogenesis of anterior cruciate ligament injuries. • To discuss the complications and preventive measures that may reduce the risk of anterior cruciate ligament injuries among athletes. 4. Literature Search Strategy and Methods: A comprehensive review of scientific literature was conducted using multiple databases, including „Medline“ (PubMed), „Google Scholar“ and others. The article search was performed using the following keywords and their combinations: anterior cruciate ligament rupture, gender differences, biomechanics, neuromuscular factors, hormonal factors, anatomical differences, social factors, complications, and prevention. The analysis included scientific publications issued between 1991 and 2025 that met the following inclusion criteria: articles written in English or Lithuanian, full-text availability, and content relevant to the objectives and aims of this thesis. In total, 72 scientific articles were reviewed. Zotero reference management software was used to store and organise the literature. 5. Results: Scientific literature confirms that anterior cruciate ligament injuries are more common in women due to anatomical, biomechanical, hormonal, and social differences. Women are at a higher risk of anterior cruciate ligament injuries due to anatomical factors, increased knee valgus angles, hormonal fluctuations, lower muscle strength balance, and weaker neuromuscular control. Preventive neuromuscular training programs, incorporating dynamic stabilization, muscle strengthening, and coordination exercises, can significantly reduce anterior cruciate ligament injury risk. 6. Conclusions: The prevalence of anterior cruciate ligament injuries differs between men and women, influenced not only by biological but also by social and sport-specific factors. Effective prevention should be tailored to individual biomechanical characteristics and gender differences. Early detection of biomechanical dysfunctions and individualized training programs can help reduce anterior cruciate ligament injury rates in both men and women. |
