The female body is built very differently to the male body, has different hormones and phases in life, different strengths and abilities, and as a result, is prone to different injuries and complications. We are passionate about being able to educate and look after the female athletes in our community, and provide the specific and tailored advice they need.
“Women aren’t small men”
Common Differences in Females
- Bone Injuries: Stress fractures and Shin Splints are more common in females vs males. Females naturally have smaller bones and are prone to having lower bone mineral density as well as Calcium and Vitamin D levels within the bones. Due to a lower testosterone production, female athletes have lower lean muscle mass and as a result, the bones are likely to absorb more load with repetitive activities such as running and jumping.
- ACL Injuries: Females are 2-8x more likely to injure their ACL compared to males. There are many reasons that may contribute to this, including: hormonal differences that can increase laxity in ligaments, wider hips resulting in a different angle and forces on the knee (Q-angle), generally decreased muscle mass around the knee. With this in mind, there are many prevention programs available that can decrease the likelihood of an ACL injury.
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- The Female Athlete Triad: The Female Athlete Triad refers to a combination of menstrual dysfunction, low energy availability (with or without an eating disorder) and decreased bone mineral density (BMD). This is prevalent in the general community as well as the athletic population, in particular in sports such as running, ballet or weight class sports. Signs may include an increase in injuries, especially bone stress injuries, longer recovery times, a decrease in performance and fatigue. It is something that physiotherapists should be aware of and involves a multidisciplinary team to help with recovery.
- Pre- and Post-Pregnancy: Pregnancy and pain can cause pain and injuries in the changing female body. Exercise guidelines also change during this time. Your physiotherapist is able to help manage pain and injuries as they come up and help you to regain your strength and safely return to exercise post-partum.
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- Menopause: Menopause is signified by the change in hormone levels, in particular the decreased production of oestrogen. This decrease, along with age-related changes can result in decreased bone mineral density (risk factor for osteopenia and osteoporosis), decreased muscle mass and increased body fat. There is then the risk for increased joint stiffness, resulting in aches and pains. A physiotherapist is able to help with pain management, as well as helping with appropriate strength and mobility programs to protect bones, joints and muscles in the future.
With a thorough assessment, your physiotherapist will be able to determine the cause of your injury and provide you with a management and exercise rehabilitation program that is specific to your body and goals, and help to prevent future injuries.
