Analysis: Serious Knee Injury Among Teen Athletes Grows 26%

Project Play of the Aspen Institute recently posted an analysis provided by the National ACL Injury Coalition. The coalition reviewed injury data for 12 major girls and boys sports over five three-year periods from 2007 to 2022.

The findings are alarming: serious knee injuries among teen athletes have grown 26% over this period. ACL tears, which often require surgery and months of rehabilitation, are becoming increasingly common among young athletes — particularly girls.

Experts point to early specialization, year-round play without adequate rest, and insufficient strength and conditioning as key contributing factors. The solution isn't to keep kids out of sports — it's to ensure they're playing in environments that prioritize their long-term physical health.

What parents can do: encourage multi-sport participation, insist on adequate rest periods, and work with coaches who prioritize proper training and injury prevention.