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UEFA has launched a new initiative to investigate and better understand anterior cruciate ligament injuries in the women\u2019s game.<\/p>\n
A number of high-profile players have suffered ACL injuries in recent seasons, including England pair Beth Mead and Leah Williamson and two-time Ballon d\u2019Or winner Alexia Putellas.<\/p>\n
The new plan from the European governing body is a recommendation from its recently-established health expert panel.<\/p>\n
A group compromising internationally-renowned experts and researchers has been set up to look into the high prevalence of such injuries in women\u2019s football.<\/p>\n
One of the group\u2019s first steps has been to create an awareness questionnaire open to all individuals affected by ACL issues, including players, coaches, physicians, physiotherapists and parents.<\/p>\n
It aims to produce a consensus for an ACL injury prevention and management plan by summer 2024.<\/p>\n
UEFA chief medical officer Zoran Bahtijarevic said: \u201cAddressing the prevalence of ACL injuries in women\u2019s football is crucial for the wellbeing of athletes and the advancement of the sport.<\/p>\n
\u201cUEFA\u2019s proactive step in establishing a panel of experts reflects a commitment to understanding and reducing these injuries in the future.\u201d<\/p>\n