Description
This presentation, delivered by Andrew Porteous, discusses the collaboration between BASK and BOSTAA in the field of ACL injury prevention, emphasizing the importance of a national strategy. Porteous highlights the increasing rates of ACL injuries, particularly among young female athletes, and the worrying trend of rising reconstructive surgery cases in the pediatric population. He points out specific sports, such as girls' soccer and basketball, that pose higher risks for ACL injuries.
Porteous emphasizes the need for a coordinated approach to tackle this issue, rallying various stakeholders, including surgeons, sports physicians, and PE teachers, to work together on prevention strategies. He details how evidence has been gathered to inform these strategies, focusing on the efficacy of neuromuscular training programs that can potentially reduce the risk of ACL injuries significantly.
The presentation outlines the various initiatives, ongoing research, and educational efforts to raise awareness and implement effective programs targeting high-risk youth athletes. Porteous also discusses the challenges in securing government support and funding while stressing the potential health benefits that extend beyond injury prevention.
In engaging with the audience, Porteous encourages orthopedic surgeons and sports professionals to advocate for the adoption of existing programs in their local sports clubs and schools, ensuring that injury prevention becomes part of the culture in youth sports.