RCT of PEP Program to Reduce ACL Injuries in Female Collegiate Soccer Players

Overview

This research study involves implementing and evaluating a physical training program specifically designed to reduce the risk of ligamentous knee injuries in female soccer players by incorporating proven neuromuscular and proprioceptive training concepts into a concise, on-field warm-up activity. All 283 Division I NCAA women's soccer teams were asked to participate in this research study. Those that agreed were randomized to control (usual training program) and intervention (alternative warm-up program). Both groups of teams provided investigators with participation and knee injury information during the 15 week 2002 fall soccer season. Requested information included only that which would be readily available to the certified athletic trainers (ATC) in their normal course of duties. The knee injury rates among intervention team athletes were compared with control team athletes to determine program effectiveness. Data collection is complete and the report should be submitted shortly for publication.

This research study involves implementing and evaluating a physical training program specifically designed to reduce the risk of ligamentous knee injuries in female soccer players by incorporating proven neuromuscular and proprioceptive training concepts into a concise, on-field warm-up activity. All 283 Division I NCAA women's soccer teams were asked to participate in this research study. Those that agreed were randomized to control (usual training program) and intervention (alternative warm-up program). Both groups of teams provided investigators with participation and knee injury information during the 15 week 2002 fall soccer season. Requested information included only that which would be readily available to the certified athletic trainers (ATC) in their normal course of duties. The knee injury rates among intervention team athletes were compared with control team athletes to determine program effectiveness. Data collection is complete and the report should be submitted shortly for publication.