New research led by Dr Hossein Mokhtarzadeh reveals that targeted ankle training can dramatically cut costly knee injuries in Australian football and other high‑impact sports.
Key Points
- Mathematical models show ankle control is critical for knee safety.
- Carlton Football Club is trialling the screening tool to find players at highest risk.
- Strengthening the soleus muscle may reduce ACL tears by up to 30 percent.
- Halving knee injuries across Australian football could save more than AUD 60 million each year.
The Engineer Behind the Breakthrough
Dr Hossein Mokhtarzadeh, a mechanical engineer and postdoctoral fellow at the University of Melbourne, is applying motion‑capture data and force plates to refine computer models of the leg. His goal is to predict injury risk and guide prevention programs.
Why Ankles Matter More Than You Think
During rapid direction changes and landings, the ankle must resist internal rotation that overloads the knee. Experiments on pig limbs confirmed that locking the shin at the ankle raised the force needed to damage the ACL.
The Forgotten Muscle: Soleus
The soleus, a large calf muscle that does not cross the knee joint, adds up to 30 percent of the protective force at the ligament. Most rehab plans ignore it. Hossein argues that dedicated soleus strengthening should become standard in physiotherapy protocols.
Carlton Football Club Pilot Program
Carlton is testing Hossein’s model to screen players pre‑season. Data‑driven alerts flag those needing extra ankle work before match play begins.
Next Steps
- Validate the model across multiple AFL and community teams.
- Create simple gym and field drills to target soleus and other stabilisers.
- Design a mechanical ankle brace for athletes unable to achieve sufficient muscle strength.
The Bottom Line
Focusing on ankle stability could transform ACL prevention in football, basketball, and volleyball. With robust screening and training, clubs stand to save millions and keep athletes on the field.
