But, there are challenges when working with female athletes and the need to understand the physical and physiological difference between men and women is imperative to us who work with sport injuries.
Physical: First, the bones and joints of men and women differ greatly. Women have shorter and smaller limbs compared to their male counterparts, 51.2% v. 56%. Women have a wider pelvis, which is great for centre of gravity, but not always good if it creates a high Q-angle (the angle between the ASIS of the pelvis and the centre of the patella). Second, muscle mass is less in women roughly 20% less than men. Muscle quality is not necessarily different, but strength and power difference occur, for instance women have greater hamstring flexibility. Finally, women athletes have a greater general joint laxity compared to male athletes, potentially due to a decreases muscle mass surrounding a joint.
Physiological: As most of us know, women athletes have a higher fat percentage than men 22-26% v. 12-16%. Females also have a smaller heart compared to men of the same bodyweight, and also have lower blood pressure and smaller lungs. This may lead to a decrease in VO2 MAX of 10-15%.
So what does all this have to do with injuries?
Due to fluxes in estrogen levels, bone density, chosen sport and all the considerations above, it mean female athletes have a higher increase in the following injuries:
Stress fractures
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Patellar Tendonitis
Lateral Epicondylitis
Illiotibial Band Syndrome
Spondylolysis
What can female athletes do?
As with any athlete you need to ensure you are eating properly. Women who go on diets that don't have enough caloric intake for their sport will be at a higher risk of decreased bone density. Eating high quality, low processed foods such as fruits and vegetable along with protein and carbohydrates to power your body through it's sport.
Strength training and cardio. I tell all my clients to have balance. Balance your cardio and strength, don't just focus too much on one. Keeping your heart and lungs healthy through cardio and HIIT increases your VO2 MAX and strength training will keep your muscles strong.
Have regular GP check ups. It is important to ensure you visit your GP for your cervical exam and if you have any menstrual concerns. Women athletes occasionally have a decreased occurrence of menstruation cycle, if this applies to you, it is important to see your GP. Once again, nutrition and exercise can play a big part in irregular menstruation cycles.
If you suffer from a sport injury, it is important to see a sports therapist or sports physiotherapist as soon as possible. The earlier diagnosis of an injury the faster rehabilitation can be started to get you back to your pre-injury self.
In summary, working with female athletes in the sport injury world has a set of challenges all it's own, but it's worth it to see such great women excel in their chosen sports.
If you have any questions about sport injuries and rehabilitation, please contact me at sara@prestigesportinjury.co.uk
