Girls and young women are more likely to tear their ACLs. Here’s why — and how to prevent it

Girls and young women are more than twice as likely to tear their ACLs (anterior cruciate ligaments) compared with boys and men. This has been a known phenomenon for years, but scientists still aren't entirely sure why. One of the leading theories is that girls' and women's bodies are structured differently from those of boys and men. Females have wider hips, which can create a different biomechanical environment around the knee joint. This may make it more challenging to move in certain ways, potentially increasing the risk of injury. Another factor is muscle strength and conditioning. Girl…