Anyone involved in women's sports is heartbreakingly aware of the impact of ACL tears.

Lots of theories, lots of research, lots of questions. Lots of frustration.

A well-respected ski coach has formed a study group with two major foci:

1) the relationship between sophisticated stretching programs and ACL injuries
2) foot structures, shoe fit, shoe stability, orthotics, and foot-beds.

"Some history," he writes:

I have been very involved with many more athletes who have suffered ACL injuries than I want to recall. (ACL injuries are even more prevalent among alpine ski racers than among basketball or soccer players.) I have friends in the medical community who have been pioneers in developing the first reconstruction procedures for repairing torn ACLs. The earliest work in this field began in the late 1960's and early '70's. Since that time, as the incidence of ACL injuries has multiplied almost exponentially, I have observed the development of alternative techniques for ACL repairs that doctors now have to choose from.

Over all these years, I am not aware of any doctors, coaches or trainers who have had many concrete ideas for reducing the number of injuries beyond strengthening of the muscles that support the knee joint, and some tentative efforts to teach female athletes how to better jump and land. While these efforts may have prevented some injuries, there is no way we can know how many. Thus, in summary, a lot of people (including countless women's basketball fans, coaches, players and parents) continue to wish there were concrete answers to the ACL problem; but, in truth, they simply don't exist.

He has posted a fascinating (and long) outline of the study's goals and protocols. A "worth it" read for those wanting to know more.