An unusual mechanism for injury of the anterior cruciate ligament in figure skating

Clin J Sport Med. 2012 Mar;22(2):160-2. doi: 10.1097/JSM.0b013e318246ea82.

Abstract

A 20-year-old competitive figure skater presented with an acute disabling knee injury that occurred in the overhead, non-weight-bearing knee during the performance of a Biellmann spin. Examination and magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the diagnosis of a complete anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear. To our knowledge, no previous cases of acute injury of the ACL sustained during the execution of a Biellmann spin have been reported. The ACL injury we report is unique because it occurred without the blade contacting the ice. The mechanism of injury has some features that are similar to those of other noncontact ACL injuries, with the addition of centrifugal force as a potential contributor to the injury.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Knee Injuries / diagnosis
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Physical Examination
  • Skating / injuries*
  • Young Adult