Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries continue to present a significant challenge for professional athletes and the active population, with consequences including immediate disability and lasting impacts like osteoarthritis. Despite extensive research eKorts over the years, the incidence of ACL injuries has not reduced to a satisfactory level, indicating a crucial gap between scientific knowledge and its practical application in sports settings. Current prevention and rehabilitation strategies are moderately eKective but face issues such as lack of adherence and insuKicient objective progression criteria, aKecting return-to-sport performance and causing elevated re-injury rates. Hence, there is an urgent need for
inventive, holistic approaches to improve ACL injury prevention and rehabilitation.

This research topic aims to explore and promote emergent methodologies that transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries. It seeks to bridge the translational gap and advance the field by integrating cutting-edge technologies and refined biomechanical insights with practical applications. This involves addressing pressing questions like how to promote injury risk screening, enhance adherence to prevention programs, develop criteria-based rehabilitation protocols, and create eKective long-term strategies to maintain joint health. The ultimate objective is to accelerate the conversion of research findings into field practices, thereby minimizing the risk of both primary and secondary ACL injuries and promoting sustained athletic participation and overall sport health.

To gather further insights in this interdisciplinary endeavor, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

o Novel applications employing wearable technology, smart devices, machine learning, and computer vision for biomechanical evaluation and risk screening.

o Innovative prevention strategies aimed at improving engagement and eKectiveness.

o Advanced rehabilitation protocols that incorporate neuromuscular re-training, psychological readiness, and motor learning principles.

o Development of objective, multifaceted criteria to guide return-to-sport decisions.

o Long-term outcomes and strategies concentrating on joint health conservation.

o Special considerations for pediatric ACL injury prevention and rehabilitation.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Bridging biomechanics and sport: Innovations in ACL injury prevention and rehabilitation