Why Are Girls More Likely to Tear Their ACL?
August 26, 2026 · 3 min read · Dr. Tom Grogan
Female athletes tear their ACL two to eight times more often than male athletes in comparable sports. The reasons are anatomical and biomechanical — and largely trainable.
It's a question we hear a lot from parents of young female athletes: “Why does it seem like girls get hurt more than boys?”
It's not bad luck and it's not about being tougher or more careful. Research shows female athletes tear their ACL two to eight times more often than male athletes in comparable sports.
Why the Difference?
A few real anatomical and biomechanical factors are at play:
- A smaller ACL relative to body size.
- More joint mobility.
- A tendency to land more straight-legged when jumping.
- Hormone-related changes in ligament stiffness across the month.
None of this means girls are more fragile. It means their bodies respond differently to the same movements boys make on the field.
Takeaway
Here is the encouraging part: neuromuscular training programs that focus on jump and landing mechanics have been shown to meaningfully lower injury risk.
Knowing the “why” is the first step to protecting young athletes before an injury happens, not just treating it after.
Understanding her anatomy is how we keep her in the game.
Author
Dr. Tom Grogan
Co-Founder & President, Ortho Care on Demand
Hurt today? Get seen today.
See a board-certified orthopedic specialist in person, same day — no referral required.
Find a specialist →More Orthopearls
Is Their Knee Pain Just Growing Pains?
Pain right below the kneecap in a running, jumping athlete is often Osgood-Schlatter disease — common, self-limiting, and still worth a look.
Is Pitch Count Actually Protecting My Kid's Arm?
Roughly one in four pitchers ages 9 to 12 report elbow pain while pitching. Pitch limits help — and so does not pitching year round.