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"The Role of Hormones: From Regulation to Reaction”
Due to hormonal differences in the knee, females are more likely to experience an ACL tear than males.
“Research shows that the elasticity of collagen in the knee is impacted throughout different stages in the menstrual cycle, resulting in a higher risk of ACL injury.”
This quote points to the influence of hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle on ACL injury risk in women. Specifically, it highlights how the elasticity of collagen (the protein that provides structure and flexibility to ligaments) can change depending on hormone levels at different stages of the cycle. For example, increased levels of estrogen and relaxin can make the ligaments more lax or stretchy, reducing their ability to stabilize the knee joint under stress.
Menstrual Cycle Timing and ACL Risk
Research shows that ACL injury risk varies across the menstrual cycle
Some studies have even suggested that ACL injuries cluster around ovulation, though findings aren't always consistent due to individual variability and small sample sizes
Estrogen
Estrogen affects collagen metabolism and can reduce ligament tensile strength, making the ACL more prone to stretching or tearing.
It can also increase ligament laxity, which reduces joint stability.
High estrogen levels may impact neuromuscular control, contributing to altered movement patterns.
Relaxin
Primarily known for its role in pregnancy, but present in all women.
It increases ligamentous laxity, especially during certain menstrual phases.
Found in ACL tissue, suggesting it could directly weaken the ligament.
Progesterone
Its role is still being studied, but some evidence suggests it might counteract some of estrogen’s weakening effects on connective tissue.
Progesterone fluctuations may also impact coordination or muscle activation.
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