How to Save the Levers of Life

Why It Matters

Wider implementation of neuromuscular training is a high‑impact public‑health intervention that could sharply reduce surgeries, long rehab times and lost athletic participation—especially for girls in cutting/pivoting sports. Institutional adoption by pro and governing bodies creates a pathway to scale prevention to millions of athletes.

Summary

Speakers warned of a rising ACL injury epidemic—overall incidence up 26% since 2007, 32% among girls and an 80% jump in sports like lacrosse and volleyball—driven largely by training deficits and poor landing mechanics. Decades of research show neuromuscular training can cut ACL risk by 50–80%, but adoption is low: only about 20% of coaches use prevention programs and roughly 10% follow them as designed. Panelists highlighted growing momentum: the National ACL Injury Coalition, Project ACL, USA Lacrosse, US Soccer’s new education requirement, AYSO/Cedars’ age‑graded programs, and a California resolution pushing statewide implementation. The emphasis is shifting from explaining causes to scaling proven prevention across youth and elite systems.

Original Description

Three years ago, Aspen partnered with HSS to launch the National ACL Injury Coalition. Now, many groups have introduced policies to reduce preventable knee injuries. Learn how your organization can take steps to keep athletes on the field and active for life.

Cindy Chang, MD, NWSL Chief Medical Officer, AMSSM Past President, CIF Sports Med Advisory Comm, UCSF Prof Emerita

Ryan Lingor, MD, Primary Sports Medicine Physician, Hospital for Special Surgery

Moderator: Vince Minjares, PhD, Program Manager, Aspen Institute Sport & Society Program