FIFA is supporting a research project at Kingston University aimed at exploring a potential connection between the menstrual cycle and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in women`s soccer. These types of injuries occur more frequently in women`s soccer compared to men`s.
Prominent female players who have recently suffered ACL injuries include Vivianne Miedema, Beth Mead, and Sam Kerr. Notably, Kerr has been absent from the Chelsea team for 15 months due to her injury.
Simon Augustus, a senior lecturer in sport biomechanics, stated, “We intend to investigate if athletes might have a higher susceptibility to injuries due to the physiological and anatomical changes that occur during the menstrual cycle.” He added, “While we are aware that hormone levels shift throughout the cycle, the extent of their impact on injury risk is still unknown.”
The study`s objective is to decrease injury risk by tailoring training regimens to suit individual athletes. This year-long initiative, part of the FIFA Research Scholarship program, will commence in June. Experts from Kingston University will collaborate with clubs in South West London, such as Chelsea and Fulham. Participating athletes will attend regular sessions on campus for blood tests and physical performance assessments.
Researchers will analyze hormone levels in blood samples, focusing particularly on female hormones like estrogen and progesterone. These hormones have been associated with increased ligament laxity (greater joint flexibility than usual) and slower neuromuscular reaction times (the speed at which the nervous system responds to stimuli by activating muscles).
Hormone concentrations will be compared against players` physical performance data to identify any correlation between ACL injury risk factors and the athlete`s phase in her menstrual cycle. The study will also examine the typical mechanisms by which athletes sustain ACL injuries.
The research team will be led by PhD student Blake Rivers, working alongside Simon Augustus, James Brouner, and Michelle Richards, all of whom are sports and exercise science experts at Kingston.
Augustus noted, “While some injuries, like those from a forceful tackle, are unavoidable, we are trying to assist athletes who suffer ACL injuries from non-contact incidents.” He explained that these non-contact injuries offer a greater opportunity for intervention and prevention through methods like strength training or refining technique.
