Musculoskeletal Problems in the Female Athlete

Abstract

Musculoskeletal injuries in the female athlete are, for the most part, similar to those in the male athlete. However, there are differences in the incidence of these injuries and in the sports in which they tend to occur. Stress fractures are more common in the female athlete because of the higher prevalence of disordered eating and subsequent energy imbalance that leads to detrimental effects on bone. In addition, female athletes have a higher rate of noncontact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries than male athletes. Other musculoskeletal problems are also more common in females, such as multidirectional instability of the shoulder, adhesive capsulitis, and patellofemoral pain. Finally, as a function of greater participation by females in certain sports, such as dance and gymnastics, injuries specific to those sports are more common in females. This chapter addresses injuries that are seen commonly in the female athlete and reviews unique issues related to exercise and the female reproductive system. Figures depict the management of stress fractures, a stress fracture of the inferior pubic ramus, the tension aspect of the femoral neck, stress fractures of the rib, multidirectional shoulder instability, adhesive capsulitis, spondylolysis, proper squat landing technique, and the female athlete triad. A table outlines the recommended intake of both calcium and vitamin D for bone health at various ages.This chapter contains 9 figures, 1 table, 59 references, and 5 Board-styled MCQs.