In a neuromuscular training program aimed at reducing ACL injury risk, emphasis should be placed on strengthening which areas?

• A. Strengthening the hip stabilizers and knee control (e.g., gluteals and quadriceps)
• B. Forearms and wrists
• C. Calf muscles
• D. Neck muscles

Answer: (A)

Strength in this area matters because ACL injury risk rises when the knee collapses inward (dynamic valgus) and the shin moves forward relative to the thigh during high-load movements like jumping and cutting. Strengthening the hip stabilizers, especially the gluteus medius and gluteus maximus, helps keep the thigh aligned over the knee, reducing internal rotation and valgus at the knee. This proximal control, combined with improved knee control and coordination, helps manage the forces that stress the ACL during landing and deceleration. In practice, a neuromuscular training program emphasizes hip and trunk stability, proper landing mechanics, and neuromuscular awareness to promote safer knee alignment.

The other muscle groups listed don’t directly influence knee stability in the common movements that load the ACL. Forearms and wrists, calf muscles, and neck muscles don’t play a central role in controlling knee alignment during dynamic tasks, so they’re not the primary focus for reducing ACL injury risk.