With fall sports ramping up, implementing injury prevention programming is crucial. New research demonstrates that high compliance with ACL injury prevention programs can reduce the risk of injury by 33%. Sessions of at least 15 minutes, integrated into the warm-up 2–3 times per week, are recommended.
The majority of ACL injuries occur during non-contact events. Risk factors for ACL injury in sport include poor landing mechanics, reduced core stability, and dynamic knee valgus (the knee caving in during activity). Identifying these individual deficits can be achieved through screening by a Doctor of Physical Therapy. An individualized, evidence-based training program can then address these unique deficits and help athletes improve their strength, movement patterns, and overall preparedness for sport.
Coaches can and should implement injury prevention programs as part of the warm-up before practice. Research demonstrates that ACL injury prevention programs can reduce injury risk, but the program only works if athletes actually participate. Consistency and adherence are key.
One injury prevention program, FIFA 11+, was developed by international experts and targets athletes ages 14 and up. The program incorporates running, strength, balance, plyometric, and agility exercises into a structured warm-up.
FIFA 11+ poster:
The evidence is clear: adherence, not necessarily the specific program content, plays an important role in real-world effectiveness. Some of the strongest strategies include coach buy-in, integrating the program into regular training, appropriate supervision, implementer education, and digital tools.
Digital tools such as Otera Health can help coaches, athletes, and parents increase adherence by making injury prevention easier to follow and incorporate into a team’s regular routine.
While no single injury prevention program is perfect for every athlete or every team, the most important thing is finding a program that can be performed consistently. Combining a team-based injury prevention program with individual assessment can provide a more targeted approach by identifying each athlete’s specific risk factors and areas for improvement.
A little extra time before practice can go a long way toward helping athletes stay healthy, confident, and on the field this season. If you need education on how to implement this program for your team, or to conduct an individal risk assement the Stroma team is here to help!
