Study Examines Musculoskeletal Differences Between Sexes

New findings published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (JAAOS) examine gender differences in the treatment of various musculoskeletal differences.

"Knowing that there are differences in incidences and presentation between males and females is an important part of diagnosing and treating patients," said orthopaedic surgeon Jennifer Moriatis Wolf, MD, the lead study author, in a news release. "Identifying both similarities and differences will allow health care providers to deliver better care to every orthopaedic patient."

Researchers pointed out significant differences between how males and females develop several common musculoskeletal disorders.

For instance, females are 5-8 times more likely than males to suffer from an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in high-intensity sports including soccer or basketball that may require sudden changes of motion. Ankle sprains are also twice as common in females; osteoarthritis is more common in females and ACL injuries are up to 2-8 times more common in females.

On the other hand, Metacarpal and phalangeal (finger) fractures are more common in males.
Recognition of these difference can help contribute to better care of the individual patient, as well as a higher index of suspicion for injury and certain diagnoses, including ACL tears.

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